Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study
Transcription
Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study
BROWARD BOULEVARD CORRIDOR TRANSIT STUDY FM # 42802411201 FINAL REPORT July 2012 GOBROWARD Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study FM # 42802411201 Prepared For: Ms. Khalilah Ffrench, PE, Project Manager Florida Department of Transportation, District 4 3400 West Commercial Boulevard Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309 Prepared By: Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 110 E. Broward Boulevard, Suite 2410 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301 July 2012 July 2012 TABLE OF CONTENTS Section 1: Study Overview....................................................................................................................................2 Study Objective......................................................................................................................................3 Study Methodology...............................................................................................................................3 Study Alternatives.................................................................................................................................3 Section 2: Related Studies and Corridor Context.........................................................................................5 Related Studies and Corridor Context............................................................................................5 Section 3: Existing Conditions............................................................................................................................13 Study Corridor........................................................................................................................................13 Existing Data Summary .......................................................................................................................16 Existing Conditions................................................................................................................................17 Existing Conditions Key Findings Summary..................................................................................30 Section 4: Purposes and Needs..........................................................................................................................33 Study Context ........................................................................................................................................34 Project Needs..........................................................................................................................................34 Project Goals and Objectives.............................................................................................................38 Section 5: Alternatives Development................................................................................................................41 Process......................................................................................................................................................42 Long List of Strategies.........................................................................................................................43 Tier 1 Screening: Planning-level Evaluation....................................................................................45 Short List of Strategies........................................................................................................................46 Alternatives/Packages.........................................................................................................................48 Consideration in Alternatives Development..................................................................................54 Tier 2 Analysis: Alternatives Evaluation..........................................................................................54 Proposed Concept by Partners.........................................................................................................56 Next Steps Towards Implementation...............................................................................................56 Section 6: Outreach Activities.............................................................................................................................57 Partner Meetings and Broward MPO Related Meetings.............................................................57 Coordination Meetings with FDOT Staff.........................................................................................57 General Public Outreach Meeting.....................................................................................................59 Outreach Activities Next Steps.........................................................................................................59 I Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study LIST OF FIGURES Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure 1 - Study Area..............................................................................................................................................14 2 - Public Facilities and Points of Interest.........................................................................................15 3 - Existing Lane Configurations (Pine Island Rd to W 27th Ave)..............................................18 4 - Existing Lane Configurations (W 27th Ave to US-1)................................................................19 5 - Year 2011 Broward County Transit Routes...................................................................................21 6 - Average Annual Daily Traffic on Broward Boulevard...............................................................23 7 - Year 2009 Existing Traffic Conditions – Daily Traffic Volume Profiles...............................24 8 - AM Peak Period Intersection Operating Conditions................................................................26 9 - Route 22 Passenger Activity Westbound....................................................................................28 10 - Route 22 Passenger Activity Eastbound....................................................................................29 11 - Location of Jobs within the Corridor...........................................................................................35 12 - Location of Workers within the Corridor....................................................................................36 13 - Route 22 Origin and Destination Patterns.................................................................................37 14 - Alternative Selection Process........................................................................................................42 15 - Strategy Short List Selection Criteria..........................................................................................45 LIST OF TABLES Table Table Table Table Table Table Table Table Table Table Table 1 - Existing Studies, Plans, and Projects Review................................................................................6 2 - Interested Groups or Partners...........................................................................................................16 3 - Turning Movement Data......................................................................................................................25 4 - Route 22 Travel Times (Including Dwell Time).............................................................................30 5 - Transit Needs, Goals and Objectives...............................................................................................39 6 - Long List of Strategies........................................................................................................................43 7 - Short List of Strategies........................................................................................................................46 8 - Alternative Description Summary....................................................................................................49 9 - Alternative Evaluation Matrix............................................................................................................55 10 - Coordination and Partner Meetings Summary...........................................................................58 11 - One-on-One Meetings – Alternative 3 Refinement....................................................................58 II | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. SECTION 1 Study Overview 1 July 2012 STUDY OBJECTIVE The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), Broward County Transit (BCT), Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA) have partnered to study transit options for Broward Boulevard, between Pine Island Road on the west and US-1 on the east. FDOT, BCT, MPO and SFRTA (hereinafter referred to as the Partners) recognize the need for improved transit service in this corridor, which can lead to improved mobility, congestion relief, and improved air quality. Transit services along Broward Boulevard are currently experiencing recurring congestion that reduces vehicle speeds, increases operating costs, and makes scheduling of buses from a system level challenging. There are also several places along the corridor where bus stop access is hindered by incomplete local sidewalk networks, long distance transfers, and missing crosswalks. Existing conditions along the corridor do not allow the provided transit services to be sufficiently competitive with the single occupant vehicle to encourage those who have a choice to use them. The purpose of this project is to increase corridor mobility, access to transit, and transit ridership throughout the Broward Boulevard corridor by the year 2014. To accomplish this purpose, this study identified geometric and operational improvements that will reduce bus travel times and improve access to bus stops within a cost feasible manner. Alternative improvements were also evaluated. The highest priority improvements are illustrated at a conceptual-design level. This forms the basis for the preparation of final design documents in subsequent work activities. The project team examined existing traffic conditions and transit operations within the Broward Boulevard corridor and identified improvements that would benefit transit service, pedestrian/bicycle flows, and traffic operations. These include defining the markets served including any special populations: environmental justice populations or special generators; ridership; analysis of stop and transfer activity; existing and anticipated travel volumes; existing and forecasted congestion levels; land use plans; and economic development initiatives. STUDY METHODOLOGY The project team in consultation with the Partners generated a set of purposes and needs that helped to define the ultimate objectives of this study. The project team used these to develop a list of potential strategies that could support those needs. The list was screened to reduce the long list of alternatives/ strategies and determine which ones should be carried forward into the detailed alternatives analysis. The screening process was developed based on four key elements that related to the ability of the strategy to meet the project needs, goals and objectives for short-term transit improvements in the corridor. The elements were: ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ Time: Ability to implement strategy within 2 or 3 years of project commencement Space: Strategy can be implemented using the existing right-of-way Cost: Total project implementation cost is less than $5M Compatibility: Strategy is consistent with and supportive of local and regional plans. The findings of this report are presented in the following sections: Studies and Corridor Context; this ▪▪ Related section highlights other committed projects that ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ either impact or could be impacted by the work recommended in this study Existing Conditions; this section discusses the study methodology, existing services in the corridor, and how the corridor operates today Purpose and Needs; this section outlines the goals and objectives for this study as defined by the Partners Alternatives Development; this section discusses the process in which strategies were screened and formed into the three build alternatives Outreach Activities; this section presents the Partner’s participation in the development and selection of the project alternatives. STUDY ALTERNATIVES The short list of strategies was used to develop four alternatives with increasingly complex strategies. Alternative 1 assumes no strategies from this project are implemented but assumes projects in place that have already been programmed for year 2014 implementation. Alternative 2 maintains existing transit services, but provides operational improvements to the corridor and better pedestrian access to bus stops. Alternative 3 adds an overlay service on Route 22 that only stops at high demand stops. Alternative 4 dedicates the curb lanes of Broward Boulevard from SR-7 to Andrews Avenue as Business Access and Transit (BAT) lanes. Alternative 3 was selected by the Partners for moving forward into final design (herein referred to as Phase II). Alternative 4 is seen as a desirable long-term strategy that warrants additional study. 3 SECTION 2 Related Studies and Corridor Context RELATED STUDIES AND CORRIDOR CONTEXT Broward Boulevard has been studied continuously for nearly 30 years and therefore a great deal of data has been collected and made available. A key component of this project was to distill the various data and identify the primary issues affecting the corridor and how each relates to the goals of improving transit service. A review of existing plans and studies was conducted to compile a list of planned improvements and visions for the Broward Boulevard corridor and the surrounding region. The March 2010 Task 2 – Data Collection Technical Memorandum of the Broward Boulevard Transit Master Plan Phase 1, prepared by HDR Engineering, Inc., was used to draft a baseline list of existing studies and for its plan reviews. Additional studies and projects were identified by the Partners and through research. Table 1 summarizes the collective lists of studies and plans related to the Broward Boulevard corridor as of June 2012. For each study, general categories of content were identified. The categories included data collection, land use, traffic operations, transit, right-of-way, intersection/roadway improvements and pedestrian and bicycle information. Many of the documents had content pertaining to multiple categories. Key elements for each study were also summarized for information relevant to Broward Boulevard. The scopes for studies and projects that have direct impacts on the Broward Boulevard Corridor are provided in Appendix A. 5 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Florida Department of Transportation Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) On-going 3R Milling and Resurfacing of SR-842/ Broward Boulevard On-going NW 18th Avenue Signal Improvement On-going Central Broward East-West Study On Going Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Applications Broward Boulevard Park-and-Ride Facility Strategic Intermodal System Highway Connectors Assessment Downtown Fort Lauderdale Connection Imaging and Financial Analysis, Downtown Parking Assessment Fort Lauderdale Intermodal Center 6 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 2010 February 2007 2007 September 2004 October 2003 Bicycle Pedestrian Intersection/Roadway Improvements Right-of-Way Transit Traffic Operations Land Use Data Collection Date of Study/Project Study/Plan/Project Title Lead Agency Table 1 - Existing Studies, Plans, and Projects Review Key Elements This project will implement an advanced traffic management system within a defined subarea of Broward County. Broward Boulevard is within a portion of the study area from University Drive to US-1. This project will assess existing pavement conditions along Broward Boulevard from I-95 to NW 7th Avenue. Typical RRR procedures will be followed as a part of this project including the assessment of bicycle lanes and sidewalk enhancements to meet ADA standards. This project involves signal improvements at the intersection of NW 18th Avenue and Broward Boulevard to better accommodate left turns and more safely accommodate pedestrians at the intersection. This project evaluates the implementation of premium transit service in Central Broward between Ft. Lauderdale International Airport and Sawgrass Mills including the segment of Broward Boulevard from SR-7/US-441 and Downtown Fort Lauderdale. LRT and BRT alternatives are evaluated under the preferred alternative (LPA). The research identifies characteristics, elements, costs and funding based on BRT applications in the US. BRT was recommended for the Broward Boulevard corridor with 10-minute headways all day. Near-, mid- and long-term implementation phases are provided. Provides phase development plans for the intermodal terminal and integrated Riverbend Corporate Park DRI with elevated light rail spanning I-95. Broward Boulevard is a SIS facility between I-95 and NE 3rd Avenue. The report includes existing and future LOS along the corridor as well as transit and land use information. Evaluated the relocation of public sector employee parking to the periphery of Downtown Fort Lauderdale (i.e. Park-and-Ride Lot near I-95), and the replacement of the existing Downtown parking with revenue generating general public parking. Includes site plan, floor plans and elevations. The site is located in the northwest quadrant of I-95 at Broward Boulevard interchange, and includes Tri-Rail platforms and elevated light rail platforms. A light rail bridge spanning I-95 and HOV ramps to/from I-95 and twin six-level parking garages are provided. July 2012 Identifies significant bus ridership on Broward Boulevard at SR-7/US-441, I-95 and Broward Central Bus Terminal (study limits: Broward County from SR-7 to the Atlantic Ocean). Bicycle N/A I-595 Express Bus Plans Pedestrian Project Website The I-595 project includes, among other things, three reversible toll lanes between I-75 and east of SR-7 as well as express bus service to major attractors near the corridor including Fort Lauderdale Station and Downtown Fort Lauderdale.The I-595 project is anticipated to be completed by summer 2014, while express bus service for some routes is anticipated to start in 2011. Express bus service will operate during peak hours on weekdays. I-95 Mobility Study/Business Plan Broward County Transit Intersection/Roadway Improvements Express bus service along I-95 between Broward Boulevard Park-and-Ride Lot and Downtown Miami. Service started January 2010 with 15-minute headways during the AM and PM peak periods. Right-of-Way Project Website I-95 Express Bus Plans Transit Identifies congestion on Broward Boulevard as being worse in the AM peak period than in the PM peak. Traffic Operations April 2002 Land Use Date of Study/Project Downtown Fort Lauderdale Connection Project Needs Study, Existing Conditions Analysis Data Collection Study/Plan/Project Title Florida Department of Transportation Lead Agency Table 1 - Existing Studies, Plans, and Projects Review (Cont’) Key Elements AVL System Installation On-going/ Near-term From their COA, BCT plans to implement an Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) system which enables supervisors and dispatchers to view the exact locations of vehicles on the street. This makes it possible to address bus bunching and view other sources of consistent delay. It is expected this implementation will benefit transit along Broward Boulevard. Bus Shelters and Amenities Program On-going This project is a countywide project where BCT is working with each municipality to upgrade bus shelters and stop amenities throughout the county. Several stations along Broward Boulevard are being or have been upgraded under this program. On-going The program incorporates green bus fleet enhancements, transit signal priority (TSP), bicycle and pedestrian safety, transit accessibility, enhanced bus shelters and facilities, real-time passenger information, landscaping and aesthetic enhancements, and multimodal hub enhancements. Specifically, this grant will be used to purchase new hybrid buses, landscaping and terminal upgrades to Broward Central Terminal and West Regional Terminal. Broward Boulevard Livable Mobility Plan 7 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Broward County Transit Broward County Transit FY 2011 Transit Development Plan (TDP) Annual Update Comprehensive Operational Analysis Broward County Traffic Engineering Division Broward County Transit Development Plan 2009-2018 Greenlights Program 8 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. Bicycle Pedestrian Intersection/Roadway Improvements Right-of-Way Transit Traffic Operations Land Use Data Collection Date of Study/Project Study/Plan/Project Title Lead Agency Table 1 - Existing Studies, Plans, and Projects Review (Cont’) Key Elements FY 2011 Planned Capital/Facility Implementation Program includes: weekday midday headways for Route 22 from 20 minutes to 15 minutes ▪▪ Decrease Continue development ▪▪ SR-7/US-441 and US-1 of Transit Signal Priority (TSP) system on Broward Boulevard between August 2010 April 2010 FY 2011-20 BCT Service Plan includes: General operation headways between 15 minutes and 30 minutes for Routes 9, 22 and 81 BRT on Broward Blvd (FY 2016) FY 2015-20 Strategic Service Initiatives includes: Electric Light Rail Streetcar 2.7 miles Downtown Fort Lauderdale (FY 2015) ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ specific service changes, including: ▪▪ Identifies Increasing weekday frequency to 15 minutes for Route 22 between Broward Central ▪▪ Terminal and West Regional Terminal the route to serve areas of the Sunset Strip and University Drive for Route 81, ▪▪ Extending ending at West Regional Terminal. implementing Broward Boulevard as a Rapid corridor between Broward Central ▪▪ Identifies Terminal and West Regional Terminal, in the 4-6 year Preferred Service Plan analysis of Route 22 and 81, including ridership, schedule adherence, passenger ▪▪ Provides loads, and financial performance September 2008 implementation is suggested for Broward Blvd with 10 minute peak service/15 minute ▪▪ BRToff-peak and weekend service. Ongoing program BCTED is leading to reassess signal timing county-wide. Signals ▪▪ ThealongGreenlights Broward Boulevard have been retimed under this program. July 2012 Bicycle Pedestrian Intersection/Roadway Improvements Right-of-Way Transit Traffic Operations Land Use Data Collection Date of Study/Project Boulevard is: 1) an evacuation route between I-95 and US-1; 2) a Congestion ▪▪ Broward Management System (CM S) corridor and a truck route; and 3) a Strategic Intermodal System Adopted January 2010 Broward County Land Use Plan Update September 28, 2010 ▪▪ Identifies future land uses within the study area. 2035 Broward Transformation: Long Range Transportation Plan December 2009 Cost Feasible Plan: BRT on Broward Boulevard between SR-7/US-441 and Downtown Fort Lauderdale BRT on north-south connecting facilities such as University Drive Mobility Hubs on Broward Boulevard: 2 Gateway Hubs (I-95/Fort Lauderdale Station and Broward Central Terminal) and 1 Community Hub (SR-7/US-441). Greenways: Dixie Highway from Sunrise Boulevard to Eller Drive and SW 39th Avenue from Broward Boulevard to Davie Boulevard Transit Housing Oriented Redevelopment 2008 South Florida Regional Transportation Authority Broward County Comprehensive Plan Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Study/Plan/Project Title Key Elements Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Broward County Planning and Zoning Lead Agency Table 1 - Existing Studies, Plans, and Projects Review (Cont’) ▪▪ (SIS) facility between I-95 and NE 3rd Avenue. Significant parking facilities are located at Riverland Drive, Fort Lauderdale Station, and in Downtown Fort Lauderdale between SW 4th Avenue and SE 3rd Avenue. ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ recommendation for land use plan amendments, zoning and design guidelines, ▪▪ Provide economic development, housing and transportation to support transit focusing on unincorporated areas near Broward Boulevard the Central Broward East-West LRT along Broward Boulevard from SR-7/US441 to ▪▪ Identifies Downtown Fort Lauderdale as having: Strategic Regional Transit Plan Transit Development Plan (FY 2010-2019) 2009 2009 most riders per miles in the region ▪▪ The the best cost recovery and lowest trip subsidy ▪▪ Among of the Central Broward East-West LRT projected ridership, and only 20% of projected ▪▪ 40% overall project cost a goal to expand SFRTA system funding, including employer participation in Tri-Rail ▪▪ Identifies feeder bus service and local government participation in station development (supporting the shuttle service between the Fort Lauderdale Tri-Rail station and Downtown Fort Lauderdale) 9 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Fort Lauderdale DDA Wave Streetcar Circulator City of Fort Lauderdale South Florida Regional Transportation Authority Tri-Rail Origin-Destination Studies Fort Lauderdale Downtown Development Authority 2007/2008 Project Website Broward Boulevard Joint Development Initiative On-going Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Plan On-going Downtown Walkability Study On-going Flagler Greenway On-going Riverwalk District Plan (Draft) 10 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. September 27, 2010 Bicycle Pedestrian Intersection/Roadway Improvements Right-of-Way Transit Traffic Operations Land Use Data Collection Date of Study/Project Lead Agency Study/Plan/Project Title Table 1 - Existing Studies, Plans, and Projects Review (Cont’) Key Elements of survey respondents boarded at Fort Lauderdale station, and 7% of respondents ▪▪ 8%departed from this station Mode: 10% transferred to transit primarily using Tri-Rail shuttles ▪▪ Egress ▪▪ Access Mode: 8% used transit primarily the BCT Route 22 2.7 mile streetcar system connecting Broward Central Terminal with Broward General ▪▪ AMedical Center (with 10 stations) is being planned. The alignment crosses Broward Boulevard at 1st Avenue and includes transit signal priority. Headways are 7.5 minutes during peak periods and 10 minutes off peak. initiative is evaluating different alternatives for redeveloping downtown Fort Lauderdale, ▪▪ This specifically in the Broward Boulevard vicinity. plan is looking at developing a ‘gateway’ look for Broward Boulevard between I-95 and ▪▪ This downtown. The plan will incorporate a system context perspective while determining what Broward Boulevard will look like long term. study is exploring how ‘walkable’ downtown Fort Lauderdale is and will identify ▪▪ This potential improvements for the pedestrian and bicyclist experience. ▪▪ This project is implementation of a greenway between Broward and the Tarpon River and enhancement to the Riverwalk and blocks north and south of the New ▪▪ Improvement River to strengthen and expand arts, cultural and entertainment uses as well as create lively, safe, walkable, attractive and comfortable public spaces. This will help shape Downtown Ft. Lauderdale as a significant regional destination July 2012 Florida Department of Transportation and City of Fort Lauderdale City of Plantation City of Fort Lauderdale Bicycle Pedestrian Intersection/Roadway Improvements Right-of-Way Transit Traffic Operations Land Use Data Collection Date of Study/Project Study/Plan/Project Title Lead Agency Table 1 - Existing Studies, Plans, and Projects Review (Cont’) Key Elements the following opportunities: ▪▪ Identifies Encourage and plan passenger rail service on the FEC line ▪▪ Improve transit connections from Downtown Fort Lauderdale westward to Fort ▪▪ Lauderdale Station Fort Lauderdale Downtown Master Plan May 2007 Update the following changes on Broward Boulevard: ▪▪ Recommends Narrow the street travel-way by relocating existing bike lanes to other, more appropriate 84th Avenue Intersection Improvements On-going project will upgrade the 84th Avenue corridor including the intersection of 84th Avenue ▪▪ This and Broward Boulevard. Central Plantation Conceptual Master Plan (Midtown) and the Community Redevelopment Plan (Gateway) Broward Boulevard Corridor Study December 2002 and June 2000 ▪▪ streets, and replacing them with planting strips to buffer pedestrian sidewalks a raised planting bed along the center median without interrupting turn lanes. ▪▪ Provide Introduce mid-block pedestrian crossings at key locations. ▪▪ plans looked at future land use and supporting transportation facilities in the ▪▪ These designated areas of Plantation that the studies covered. areas to retain, reinvest and redevelop along the corridor. Most of the commercial ▪▪ Identifies land was categorized as revitalization area, while redevelopment areas include the Police September 2006 ▪▪ ▪▪ Station site, the Performing Arts Center parking garage and adjacent vacant land. Evaluates and recommends shifting the station at SW 11th Avenue (proposed in the Central Broward East-West Transit Alternatives Analysis) to the west at SW 15th Avenue and introducing a new station at SW 7th Avenue. At-grade and elevated alternatives were studied for these stations. Recommends the creation of transit oriented development (TOD) and development opportunities focused on the integration of transit, land use, and community character. 11 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Federal Transit Administration and National BRT Institute, Center for Urban Transportation Research, University of South Florida (USF) Bicycle Pedestrian Intersection/Roadway Improvements Right-of-Way Transit Traffic Operations Land Use Data Collection Date of Study/Project Study/Plan/Project Title Florida Department of Transportation, Broward County, Cities of Fort Lauderdale, Lauderhill and Lead Agency Plantation Table 1 - Existing Studies, Plans, and Projects Review (Cont’) Key Elements project was prepared as a second phase of the Central Broward East-West Study. ▪▪ This Identifies to retain, reinvest and redevelop along the corridor. The primary area for ▪▪ revitalizationareasis south of Broward Blvd between SW 35th Avenue and WW 27th Avenue, and Broward Boulevard West Corridor Study Pines Boulevard Transit Signal Priority Evaluation 12 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. September 2007 February 2011 ▪▪ the redevelopment areas include north of Broward Blvd west of NW 31st Avenue and north/ south of Broward Blvd east of W 27th Avenue 27th Avenue and 35th Avenue were identified as potential future stations in addition to the SR-7, 31st Avenue and Fort Lauderdale stations (proposed in the Central Broward East-West Study stations). Station plans were prepared for all locations, and the relocation of Fort Lauderdale Station to the north side of Broward was considered week transit signal priority demonstration project on Pines/Hollywood Boulevard ▪▪ Two at approximately 50 signalized intersections ▪▪ Implemented Unconditional strategy ▪▪ AM travel timepriority savings of 5 minutes 16 seconds (28 minute overall travel time) ▪▪ PM travel time savings of 1 minute (42 minute overall travel time) ▪▪ SECTION 3 Existing Conditions STUDY CORRIDOR Broward Boulevard provides east/west connection between US-1 and N Flamingo Road. There are over 30 signalized intersections and dozens of unsignalized access points serving businesses and residential areas along the study corridor. Figure 1 illustrates the study area. Figure 2 illustrates the existing travel destinations along and in the region of the corridor. The portion of the Broward Boulevard corridor that is the focus of this study is the 8-mile section between Pine Island Road and US-1 (Federal Highway). The eastern portion of the corridor between US-1 and I-95 is a Central Business District (Downtown Fort Lauderdale) with a high concentration of commercial and offices uses and has buildings situated up to the right-of-way, eliminating the possibility of transportation facility expansion. The portion between I-95 and SR-7/US-441 is a transition/suburban area with strip mall and residential uses. The western portion of the corridor between SR-7/US441 and Pine Island Road is primarily residential with commercial uses located near major intersections. Although the western section is in a more suburban-like setting, there are still constraints preventing easy expansion of transportation facilities beyond the existing right-of-way due to nearby canals and the existing built environment. The 8-mile study corridor is a six‐lane facility with a posted speed limit of 35 miles per hour (mph) along the eastern portion of the corridor (between US-1 and NW 9th Avenue), 40 mph along the mid portion of the corridor (between NW 9th Avenue and SR-7/ US-441), and 45 mph along the western portion of the corridor (between SR-7/US-441 and Pine Island Road). The study corridor is owned and maintained by two agencies. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) owns and maintains the section between US-1 and SR-817 (University Drive) which is designated as SR-842. Broward County owns and maintains the section between SR-817 and Pine Island Road. 13 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Figure 1 - Study Area OAKLAND PARK Pine Island Rd LAUDERDALE LAKES LAZY LAKE LAUDERDALE LAKES SUNRISE WILTON MANORS 811 845 Sunrise Blvd University Dr LAUDERHILL Sunrise Blvd 838 Andrews Ave NW 31st Ave 7 817 95 West Regional Terminal Broward Blvd PLANTATION 842 1 Broward Central Terminal Ft. Lauderdale Station FORT LAUDERDALE Davie Blvd Pine Island Rd 595 84 DAVIE 0 1,500 3,000 736 Feet 6,000 DANIA BEACH HOLLYWOOD DANIA BEACH HOLLYWOOD FIGURE 1 14 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. July 2012 Figure 2 - Public Facilities and Points of Interest Pine Island Rd LAUDERHILL 838 7 P Æ PLANTATION P Æ 0 95 Broward Blvd 1 P Æ FORT LAUDERDALE 842 Library Museum Courts Medical City Hall Davie Blvd 736 P Æ Entertainment Police Shopping Pine Island Rd Sunrise Blvd Andrews Ave NW 31st Ave 817 WILTON MANORS 811 845 Sunrise Blvd University Dr LAZY LAKE LAUDERDALE LAKES SUNRISE OAKLAND PARK LAUDERDALE LAKES School Golf Course 595 Church Cemetery Signalized Intersection 0.5 1 84 DAVIE Miles 2 DANIA BEACH HOLLYWOOD HOLLYWOOD DANIA BEACH FIGURE 2 15 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study EXISTING DATA SUMMARY The data collection effort for this project was established with the Broward Boulevard Transit Master Plan Phase 1 study by HDR Engineering, Inc. This study relied on data that had been collected for other studies as its starting point. New data was collected or updated only as necessary. The following steps were followed: 1. Build upon the previous Broward Boulevard Transit Master Plan Phase 1 (2010), Task 2 – Data Collection Technical Memorandum (March 2010) 2. Compare scope of Transit Master Plan with scope of project 3. Identify areas where data was missing 4. Identify new and supplemental information. EXISTING CONDITIONS DISCUSSIONS The project team conducted one-on-one meetings with various interested groups or partners during the months of January, February, and March 2011. The purpose of the meetings was to introduce the project and the project team, and to allow the Partners to provide information and perspective related to the project. This allowed the team to listen and understand all the issues, challenges, and potential ideas and solutions. Lastly, the meetings allowed the team to identify and obtain additional information directly from the partners that may not have been publicly available. Table 2 lists the partner agencies and specific staff that were interviewed. 16 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. Table 2 - Interested Groups or Partners Florida Department of Transportation, District 4 of Modal Development ▪▪ Office of Operations ▪▪ Office Consultant Office ▪▪ Right-of-WayManagement ▪▪ Planning OfficeOffice ▪▪ Broward County Traffic Engineering Department Brunner ▪▪ Scott ▪▪ John Kleinedler South Florida Regional Transportation Authority Quinty ▪▪ JoeBill Cross ▪▪ Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization Stuart ▪▪ Greg James ▪▪ Cromar Broward County Transit Roberson ▪▪ Jonathan ▪▪ TimJohnGarling ▪▪ ArethiaRamos ▪▪ Douglas July 2012 FIELD VISIT 24-Hour Traffic Volume Profiles The Broward Boulevard corridor was inventoried and traffic operations were observed in January, February, and March 2011. The field review includes the following: Historic AADTs were obtained from FDOT for 13 locations along the corridor from University Drive to US-1. These counts were conducted as recently as 2009. Roadway Characteristics Traffic Characteristics Peak AM and PM peak hours and non-peak times Location and extent of congestion and delay Transit Characteristics Routes Bus Stops Transfer locations Pedestrian counts were collected by FDOT District 4 at the same study intersections as the April 2010 turning movement counts. These counts were taken during the weekday AM and PM peak hours on a typical weekday. ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ TRAFFIC COUNTS Turning movement counts, 24-hour traffic volume counts, and pedestrian data were obtained and reviewed along the corridor. Following is a summary of each type of count data. Turning Movement Counts Broward County Traffic Engineering Department (BCTED) provided Synchro files and turning movement counts for Broward Boulevard. The turning movement counts are for the signalized intersections from University Drive (SR-817) to US-1 and were collected during the AM and midday peak hours in late 2008 and early 2009. Neither PM nor evening peak hour turning movement volumes were provided. In 2010, manual turning movement counts were conducted by FDOT District 4 for some of the existing study intersections along Broward Boulevard in association with the Central Broward East-West Transit Study. All of the counts used in this analysis were conducted on a typical mid-week day in April 2010 during the AM (7:00 to 9:00) and PM (4:00 to 6:00) peak periods. The counts were done at intersections from SR-7/US-441 to US-1. In addition, 2011 turning movement counts were also collected as part of the Broward Boulevard East-West Study in the vicinity of the I-95 ramps, Fort Lauderdale Station, and the Park-and-Ride Lot in the month of April during the AM (7:00 to 9:00) and PM (4:30 to 6:30) peak periods. Pedestrian and Bicycle Counts Bicycle counts were not collected. TRANSIT ROUTE AND RIDERSHIP DATA EXISTING CONDITIONS The existing conditions analysis identifies the study area conditions of the Broward Boulevard corridor. The analysis includes roadway and transit facilities, traffic volumes for vehicles, transit ridership and travel times data. The purpose of this section is to set the stage for a basis of comparison to future conditions. Detailed information on traffic and transit conditions are provided in Appendix B. STUDY AREA CHARACTERISTICS This section provides a description of the roadway and transit facilities that exist today. Broward County Transit (BCT) routes and schedules were reviewed to inventory transit service along Broward Boulevard. Detailed ridership transaction data collected by BCT during the summer 2009 for the Comprehensive Operational Analysis was provided for all routes, including Routes 1, 10, and 20, in downtown Fort Lauderdale and Routes 9, 22 and 81 which operate along portions of Broward Boulevard within the study area. Roadway Facilities Information was also gathered for a number of other transit options on Broward Boulevard that provide direct service and transfer connections along the corridor. These include rail service (Tri-Rail and Amtrak) and bus service (Broward County Transit fixed route, Breeze, Sun Trolley, I 95 Express, Tri-Rail Shuttle, and Tri-Rail NW Community Link). There are a number of major transfer facilities, including the West Regional Terminal, the Ft. Lauderdale Station, and the Broward Central Terminal. There are 32 signalized intersections within the study corridor. Figures 3 and 4 illustrate the existing lane configurations and traffic control devices at the study intersections and corresponding number of lanes on the corridor and adjacent roadways for the 28 intersections included in the FDOT owned portion of the corridor. TRAFFIC OPERATIONS MODEL BCTED provided weekday AM and mid-day peak hour Synchro models for Broward Boulevard. These models contained lane configurations, signal timings, and historic (2008) traffic volumes at most signalized intersections along the corridor. The lane configurations and traffic operations were verified through field visits, and traffic volumes were updated with April 2010 counts. The cross-section of Broward Boulevard is consistently six-lanes along the corridor. A landscaped median is established along the entire corridor. The median limits left-turns to unsignalized intersections at certain locations, while left-turns from unsignalized side streets and driveways are prohibited. There are sidewalks and interrupted bike lanes on both sides of the corridor. On-street parking is not permitted. Signal Timing Signal timing and coordination data for Broward Boulevard (between University Drive and US-1) was provided by BCTED in a number of formats. The information provided is reflective of timing changes BCTED implemented in the fall 2010, under their Green Lights program. The 2008 AM and mid-day Synchro models contain timing and phasing information that is consistent throughout the entire day. The key timing and phasing information in the Synchro files were not modified during recent timing updates. Additionally, BCTED provide the updated cycle length, split times, and coordination plans for all time periods. The cycle length during the AM, mid-day and PM peak periods is 160 seconds throughout the entire corridor. 17 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Figure 3 - Existing Lane Configurations (Pine Island Rd to W 27th Ave) 14 ay 17 16 15 Ln Tre e d y Dr an Rd Fig Isl ers it ne Eldorado Pkwy Univ Pi 0 Broward Boulevard & Pine Island Road 1 Broward Boulevard & W 69th Avenue 8 Broward Boulevard & W 35th Avenue 15 Broward Boulevard & W 84th Avenue 2 Broward Boulevard & Fig Tree Lane 9 Broward Boulevard & W 34th Avenue 16 Broward Boulevard & W 82nd Avenue 3 Broward Boulevard & W 54th Avenue 10 Broward Boulevard & W 31st Avenue 17 Broward Blvd SW 54th Ave Ave NW 70th 13 Broward Boulevard & Executive Pavillion Way 4 Broward Boulevard & E Acre Drive 11 Broward Boulevard & University Drive 5 Broward Boulevard & W 46th Avenue 12 Broward Boulevard & Eldorado Parkway 6 Broward Boulevard & SR-7/US-441 13 1,500 3,000 NW 27th Ave 842 W NW 31st Ave 7 12 11 38 th NW 34th Ave 6 5 10 7 NW NW 35th Ave e NW 69th Av 4 2 3 1 9 8 NW 46th Ave E Acre Dr 817 18 19 Feet 6,000 Broward Boulevard & W 70th Avenue 7 Broward Boulevard & W 38th Way 14 Broward Boulevard & W 27th Avenue 18 FIGURE 18 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. July 2012 Figure 4 - Existing Lane Configurations (W 27th Ave to US-1) Broward Boulevard & W 24th Avenue 19 Broward Boulevard & I-95 SB Ramps Broward Boulevard & I-95 NB Ramps 20 28 25 30 29 NE 3rd Ave 27 Broward Boulevard & W 11th Avenue 24 Andrews Ave 1 32 31 0 Broward Boulevard & W 9th Avenue 26 Broward Boulevard & W 7th Avenue 27 Broward Boulevard & W 5th Avenue 28 Broward Boulevard & W 1st Avenue 29 Broward Blvd SW 1st Ave 26 Broward Boulevard & W 14th Avenue NW 5th Ave 845 NW 7th Ave 95 24 25 NW 9th Ave SW 24th Ave 23 22 23 NW 11th Ave 21 NW 14th Ave NW 16th Ave 20 Broward Boulevard & W 15th Avenue 22 SW 18th Ave 19 Broward Boulevard & W 18th Avenue 21 Broward Boulevard & Andrews Avenue 30 Broward Boulevard & E 3rd Avenue 31 500 1,000 Feet 2,000 Broward Boulevard & US-1 32 FIGURE 19 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Transit Facilities There are currently a number of transit options on Broward Boulevard that provide direct service and transfer connections along the corridor. These include rail service (Tri-Rail and Amtrak) and bus service (Broward County Transit fixed route, Breeze, Sun Trolley, I 95 Express, Tri-Rail Shuttle, and Tri-Rail NW Community Link). There are a number of major transfer facilities, including the West Regional Terminal, the Ft. Lauderdale Station, and the Broward Central Terminal. Tri-Rail Tri-Rail is South Florida’s regional commuter rail service. Falling under the jurisdiction of the South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA), it provides commuter rail connection between Mangonia Park Station in Palm Beach County and Miami Airport Station in Miami-Dade County. Tri-Rail provides direct Service to Broward Boulevard at the Fort Lauderdale Station located on the west side of the Broward Boulevard/I-95 interchange. A connecting shuttle service is also provided along Broward Boulevard to bring passengers between Fort Lauderdale Station and Downtown Fort Lauderdale. Weekday service runs from approximately 5:00 AM to 10:30 PM northbound and southbound, providing 20-30-minute headways during the peak AM and PM commuting hours and 60-minute headways during the off-peak times. Tri-Rail Service is also provided during weekends and holidays with service at Fort Lauderdale Station running from 7:00 AM and 9:30 PM at approximate headways of 2 hours in both northbound and southbound directions. Amtrak The Fort Lauderdale Station is served by two daily Amtrak trains that are part of their Atlantic Coast Service. The Silver Meteor and Silver Star trains provide service between Miami and Boston, MA. Currently, southbound trains have scheduled service to Fort Lauderdale at 5:12 PM and 6:02 PM, while northbound trains have scheduled service at 9:20 AM and 12:30 PM. Broward County Transit There are three major Broward County Transit (BCT) bus routes that have scheduled stops along the Broward Boulevard corridor. Five other bus routes use portions of Broward Boulevard near downtown Fort Lauderdale and others in the vicinity of West Region- 20 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. al Terminal. Also, a number of bus routes cross Broward Boulevard, including the US-1 Breeze, Route 441 Breeze and University Breeze. Figure 5 illustrates the existing transit service routes on Broward Boulevard in the study area. Route 22, Route 81 and Route 9 are the major routes that operate along the corridor. All of the bus stops are fixed locations with signs and route numbering. Route 22 Route 22 is the route that most directly serves Broward Boulevard. It provides bus service between Broward Central Terminal in downtown Fort Lauderdale and Sawgrass Mills Mall and with the exception of a few deviations, uses Broward Boulevard for most of their mutual length. Route 22 provides direct access to Fort Lauderdale Station, its Park-and-Ride, Westfield Broward Mall, and West Regional Terminal. Route 22 operates between the hours of 5:00 AM and 11:55 PM on weekdays, 5:25 AM and 11:35 PM on Saturdays, and 8:10 AM and 9:50 PM on Sundays. Route 22 operates with 15 minute headways during the week and 30 minute headways on weekends. Route 81 Like Route 22, this route provides bus service between Broward Central Terminal in downtown Fort Lauderdale and West Regional Terminal in Plantation. Route 81 follows a portion of Broward Boulevard, but diverts to the north between NW 31st Avenue and University Drive. Route 81 provides a stop on Broward Boulevard adjacent to Fort Lauderdale Station, requiring passengers to walk to the station platform and Park-and-Ride. Route 81 operates between the hours of 5:50 AM and 11:35 PM on weekdays, 5:40 AM and 11:35 PM on Saturdays, and 8:00 AM and 8:55 PM on Sundays. Route 81 operates with 20 minute headways during the week and 30 minute headways on Saturdays, and 45 minute headways on Sundays. Route 9 Route 9 provides local service from Broward Central Terminal along Broward Boulevard to NW 35th Avenue, then south to Young Circle. Route 9 provides a stop on Broward Boulevard adjacent to Fort Lauderdale Station, requiring passengers to walk to the station platform and Park-and-Ride. Route 9 operates from 5:30 AM to 10:15 PM on weekdays, 5:50 AM to 10:20 PM on Saturdays, and 8:30 AM to 8:10 PM on Sundays. Route 9 operates with 45 minute headways during the week and 60 minute headways on weekends. Other BCT Routes Other BCT routes operate along short sections of Broward Boulevard. Routes 1, 10, and 20 each terminate their routes at Broward Central Terminal. In the vicinity of West Regional Terminal, Routes 2 and 12 operate on Broward Blvd between University Drive and Pine Island Road. Breeze The Breeze is a limited stop service with three routes in Broward County. Routes US-1 Breeze, 441 Breeze and University Breeze provide service along their respective north-south corridors and have stops at Broward Boulevard. Route US-1 Breeze serves the US-1 corridor between Sample Road and Aventura Mall, with a major stop at the Broward Central Terminal. It operates between the hours of 6:00 AM to 9:13 AM and 3:50 PM to 7:13 PM on weekdays. Route 441 Breeze serves the SR-7/US-441 corridor between Sample Road and the Golden Glades Parkand-Ride. One of the highest volume transfers is with Route 22. It operates between the hours of 5:07 AM and 11:07 AM and 2:42 PM and 7:52 PM on weekdays. Finally, Route University Breeze serves the University Drive corridor between Parkland and the Golden Glades Park-and-Ride, with major destinations at the Westfield Broward Mall, West Regional Terminal and Medical Center. It operates between the hours of 5:30 AM to 9:20 AM and 3:30 PM to 7:20 PM on weekdays. All Breeze routes operate with 30 minute headways. Sun Trolley Sun Trolley is a circulator service that operates a number of loop routes in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The routes provide connections between various municipal and tourist destinations including Broward Central Terminal and the ocean beaches. Some routes operate only during the peak period, while others run on consistent 10 minute headways all day. July 2012 Figure 5 - Year 2011 Broward County Transit Routes NW 31st Ave 7 817 95 1 81 Breeze West Regional Terminal Broward Central Terminal 2 12 22 30 56 81 88 Park-and-Ride 22 842 Broward Blvd Ft. Lauderdale Station 9 1 6 9 10 11 14 20 22 30 31 40 50 60 81 US 1 Breeze Breeze Andrews Ave Breeze 22 81 18 9 0 1,500 3,000 Feet 6,000 FIGURE 21 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Miami-Dade Route 95 Dade Broward Express Miami-Dade County operates the 95 Dade Broward Express limited stop service between downtown Miami, and the Park-and-Ride Lot adjacent to Fort Lauderdale Station. The service runs via I-95. Route 95 operates during the weekday AM and PM peak hours only with headways of approximately 15 minutes. Tri-Rail Shuttles SFRTA provides shuttle services on weekdays (Route FL 1 and Sun Trolley NW Community Link) and weekends (Route FL 3). Route FL 1 operates between Fort Lauderdale Station and Downtown Fort Lauderdale with stops on Broward Boulevard at SE 3rd Avenue and Broward Central Terminal. The hours of operation are 5:10 AM to 10:44 PM with 20-30 minute headways during the peak and 60 minute headways off-peak. Route FL 3 operates a standard service between Fort Lauderdale Station and Broward Medical Center, and an express loop between the Fort Lauderdale Station and Downtown Fort Lauderdale. The shuttle stops on Broward Boulevard at NE 7th Avenue (standard service) and at Broward Central Terminal (express loop). The standard service operates between 6:15 AM and 9:00 PM with 2 hour headways, while the express loop operates between 7:05 AM and 7:05 PM with 2 hour headways until 3:05 PM and 4 hour headway for the final loop. The Sun Trolley NW Community Link, which serve key destinations between Broward Boulevard and NW 19th Street including service between Fort Lauderdale Station and Broward Central Terminal. The shuttle operates between 7:00 AM and 5:00 PM on weekdays. Broward Central Terminal Broward Central Terminal has the largest boarding volumes in the BCT network, with approximately 8,300 daily boardings. The terminal is located on the northwest corner of the intersection of Broward Boulevard and NW 1st Avenue. A total of 15 routes stop at this terminal, including Routes 1, 6, 9, 10, 11, 14, 20, 22, 30, 31, 40, 50, 60, 81 and US-1 Breeze. West Regional Terminal The West Regional Terminal is a high boarding location in the BCT system, with approximately 1,500 daily boardings. The terminal is located just north of Broward Boulevard and east of Pine Island Road. A total 22 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. of 6 routes stop at this terminal including Routes 2, 12, 22, 30, 56 and 88. Fort Lauderdale Station The Fort Lauderdale Station, located on the west side of the Broward Boulevard/I-95 interchange, provides access to the Broward Boulevard corridor and Downtown Fort Lauderdale. The station serves Tri-Rail and Amtrak. It is the station in Broward County with the second highest volume of Tri-Rail boardings and alightings. BCT Route 22 and Tri-Rail shuttles provide direct access to and from this station. TRAFFIC VOLUMES Average Daily Traffic Volumes and 24-Hour Traffic Counts Historical Average Annual Daily Traffic (AADT), for years 2007, 2008 and 2009, were obtained from the Florida Traffic Database. Volumes were available at 13 locations along the corridor, and are illustrated in Figure 6. The corridor shows the highest traffic volumes between east of I-95 and east of SW 7th Avenue, with values ranging on average between 71,000 and 58,000. Traffic volumes significantly decrease west of SE 3rd Avenue, with the lowest corridor volumes east of SE 3rd Avenue (approximately 34,000 on average). The AADTs west of I-95 range between 35,000 and 45,000 vehicles per day. July 2012 Figure 6 - Average Annual Daily Traffic on Broward Boulevard On the following page, Figure 7 shows 24-Hour traffic volumes profiles at 8 locations along the corridor based on counts conducted in 2009 and obtained from the Florida Traffic Database. The highest total traffic volumes for locations west of I-95 were collected during the PM peak period (approximately 4:00 – 6:00), while for locations east of I-95 the highest traffic volumes were generally collected during both AM and PM peak periods (approximately 7:00 – 9:00 and 4:00 – 6:00). It should be noted that the count locations directly to the east and west of SW 7th Avenue show fairly steady total traffic volumes from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Figure 7 also illustrates that the heavier traffic flow is eastbound in the AM peak period and westbound in the PM peak period with the exception of the corridor portion between east of SW 7th Ave and US-1, where traffic flows are more even split between the eastbound and westbound directions during the PM peak period. 23 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Figure 7 - Year 2009 Existing Traffic Conditions – Daily Traffic Volume Profiles 24-Hour Traffic Volume Profile (ADT = 37,800) 24-Hour Traffic Volume Profile (ADT = 43,100) 24-Hour Traffic Volume Profile (ADT = 37,300) 24-Hour Traffic Volume Profile (ADT = 55,200) 3500 3500 3500 4000 3000 3000 3000 3500 2500 2500 2500 2000 2000 2000 1500 1500 1500 1000 1000 1000 500 500 500 500 0 0 0 0 Eastbound Westbound Combined Eastbound Westbound 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 Eastbound Combined Westbound Eastbound Combined Westbound Combined Sunrise Blvd Pi n e d 7 817 Andrews Ave R NW 31st Ave Is la nd 838 95 Broward Blvd University Dr 24-Hour Traffic Volume Profile (ADT = 42,500) 24-Hour Traffic Volume Profile (ADT = 43,200) 24-Hour Traffic Volume Profile (ADT = 45,700) 4500 4000 4000 4000 3500 3500 3500 3000 3000 3000 2500 2500 2000 2000 1500 1500 1000 1000 0 24-Hour Traffic Volume Profile (ADT = 32,000) 2500 2000 2000 1500 1500 1000 1000 500 500 0 0 0 1,500 3,000 Eastbound 736 3000 2500 500 Feet 6,000 Combined Westbound 1 842 Davie Blvd 4500 Eastbound Westbound Combined 500 0 Eastbound Westbound Combined Eastbound Westbound Combined FIGURE 24 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. July 2012 Intersection Turning Movements Counts Turning movement counts (TMC) were obtained for major intersections along the corridor. TMCs for year 2008 AM and midday peak hours were obtained from BCTED for locations between University Drive and US1, while 2010 AM and PM peak hour TMCs were available only for locations between SR-7/US-441 and US-1. TMCs in the vicinity of I-95 ramps, Ft. Lauderdale Station and Park & Ride Lot were also available for 2011 AM and PM peak hours. Table 3 summarizes the time period, year and corridor section for which TMC data was available. It should be noted that there is no TMC data for intersections west of University Drive. Table 3 - Turning Movement Data Data AM Peak Hour TMC Midday Peak Hour TMC PM Peak Hour TMC SR-7/US-441 to US-1 2010/2011 2008/2009 2010/2011 University Drive to SR-7/US-441 2008/2009 2008/2009 N/A Throughout the corridor, Broward Boulevard is a high traffic volume facility. The intersections with University Drive, SR-7/US-441, I-95, W 7th Avenue, and US-1 all experience failing conditions during the AM peak period while many others are close to failing. Signal timing generally favors Broward Boulevard which transfers delay that might occur on the corridor to lower volume side streets to achieve better LOS results. With corridor expansion unlikely, travel demand management, operational improvements and enhancement of alternative transportation mode choices are needed to allow more efficient and reliable passage. On the following page, Figure 8 illustrates the weekday AM peak period intersection operating conditions. 25 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Figure 8 – AM Peak Period Intersection Operating Conditions 7 95 Davie Blvd 1 US-1 E 3rd Avenue W 1st Avenue Andrews Avenue W 5th Avenue W 7th Avenue W 15th Avenue W 18th Avenue I-95 SB Ramp I-95 NB Ramp W 24th Avenue W 27th Avenue W 31st Avenue W 34th Avenue W 35th Avenue W 38th Avenue W 46th Avenue E Acre Drive W 54th Avenue Fig Tree Lane W 69th Avenue W 70th Avenue El Dorado Parkway University Drive * 842 W 9th Avenue Broward Blvd W 11th Avenue 817 W 14th Avenue d Andrews Ave R NW 31st Ave Is la nd Sunrise Blvd 838 SR-7/US-441 e University Dr Pi n 736 Level of Service 0 A B C D Volume to Capacity Volume Unused Capacity E F 1,500 3,000 * The intersection of Broward Boulevard and W 14th Avenue Feet above capacity during the AM peak period is currently operating but is still6,000 considered to have an LOS of C due to very low cross street volume. FIGURE 26 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. July 2012 TRANSIT RIDERSHIP Ridership analysis was primarily focused on Route 22 because it serves as the through service for the corridor. Route 22 has a weekday ridership of approximately 3,580. It shows one of the highest system levels of Saturday ridership of about 3,560. Sunday ridership is less than half of Saturday ridership (1,330 passengers). Route 22 has the most passenger activity at Broward Central Terminal, Sawgrass Mills Mall, West Regional Terminal, and SR-7/US-441. Weekday westbound boardings are highest at Broward Central Terminal (200 AM peak, 400 midday, and 250 PM peak), while the stops with most alightings are the West Regional Terminal (80 in both the AM and PM peaks, and 100 midday) and Sawgrass Mills (40 AM peak, 120 midday, and 50 PM peak). The stop at SR-7/US-441 also shows significant alightings on the westbound direction at midday (80) and PM peak period (50). Eastbound weekday boardings at the West Regional Terminal (50 AM peak, 80 midday and PM peak) and Sawgrass Mills (50 at both the midday and PM peaks) are the highest, while the stops with most alightings are Broward Central Terminal (220 AM peak, 320 midday, and 150 PM peak) and SR-7/US-441 (50 midday, and 20 PM peak). The highest passenger activity at Westfield Broward Mall is in the westbound direction at midday, with approximately 40 alightings, and on the eastbound direction at midday and PM peak periods with 50 and 20 boardings, respectively. All boardings and alightings noted above are approximate values. Figures 9 and 10 further illustrate Route 22 passenger activity for the westbound and eastbound directions. The intersection of Broward Boulevard and SR-7/US441 is a high transfer location. Routes 18 (the route with the highest ridership in the BCT system) and 441 Breeze have stops at this intersection. Bus passengers transferring at this location must face several bus stop access challenges that can require up to 12 minutes just to walk from the stop where they get off of one bus to the stop where they need to board another. The northbound far and near stops on SR-7/US-441 are approximately 700 feet and 600 feet from the intersection, respectively, and the eastbound far and near stops on Broward Boulevard are approximately 500 feet and 400 feet from the intersection, respectively. The signal timing also contributes to the pedestrian delay waiting for their walk indicator. Field reviews reveal that passengers at this intersection often run between stops to make their connections, crossing against the light between traffic. 27 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Figure 9 - Route 22 Passenger Activity Westbound 28 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. July 2012 Figure 10 - Route 22 Passenger Activity Eastbound 29 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Transit Travel Time Table 4 summarizes Route 22 actual travel times by peak period for Weekday and Saturday. As shown in the table, travel times are generally consistent between the AM peak, midday, and PM peak periods for each direction of travel. The travel time from Sawgrass Mills Mall to Broward Central Terminal is highest during the AM peak period on weekdays and during the PM peak period on Saturday. The travel time from Broward Central Terminal to Sawgrass Mills Mall is highest during the PM peak period on weekdays and midday on Saturday. Weekday travel takes longer than Saturday travel, for AM peak, midday and PM peak periods, by approximately 2 to 10.5 minutes eastbound and 5 to 10 minutes westbound. Table 4 - Route 22 Travel Times (Including Dwell Time) Direction Traffic Conditions Generally, Broward Boulevard operates very well west of I-95. There are however, several major signalized intersections located along this corridor. SR-7/US-441 and University Drive are the largest. During the AM and PM peak periods, these intersections operate at or over capacity, and queues of over 1000-feet occur at these and other locations. Transit vehicles currently experience the same queuing related delays as other vehicles. In the section of Broward Boulevard, between US-1 and SR-7/US-441 there are many driveways and unsignalized intersections. For example, the average curb cut density on Broward Boulevard between SR-7/US-441 and NW 31st Avenue is 29 per mile, and between NW 15th Avenue and Andrews Avenue it is 27 per mile. Driveway usage can be high throughout the day, and has a tremendous impact on the operation of Broward Boulevard. Often, the right lane effectively becomes a right turn lane, reducing the ability of Broward Boulevard to efficiently process through traffic. ▪▪ ▪▪ 30 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. AM Peak Midday PM Peak Eastbound (Weekday) 66.5 62.5 62.5 Westbound (Weekday) 64.6 63.6 66.4 Eastbound (Saturday) 56.0 54.3 60.5 Westbound (Saturday) 54.5 58.4 57.0 and bicycle activity is high at various ▪▪ Pedestrian locations. In downtown Fort Lauderdale, EXISTING CONDITIONS KEY FINDINGS SUMMARY There are a number of factors along Broward Boulevard that contribute to how well or how poorly the corridor operates as a whole. Those factors can be generally broken down into two categories, Traffic Conditions and Transit Conditions. These conditions are described below. Actual Travel Time (Min.) ▪▪ ▪▪ pedestrian and bicycle activity is frequently observed with the highest activity centered in the vicinity of Broward Central Terminal in the CBD. This segment of the corridor is prone to frequent and bold jaywalking across Broward Boulevard, which impacts traffic and is a contributing factor to poor traffic operations along this section. Jaywalking is encouraged by the long cycles at signalized crossings, long distances between crossings, and a general and widespread disregard for crosswalks. The Florida East Coast Railroad has an at-grade crossing on Broward Boulevard immediately to the west of Broward Central Terminal. Trains run frequently throughout the day. Train passage has an immediate and significant impact on Broward Boulevard operations, creating long queues that require several signal cycles to recover. Traffic volumes on the corridor are significantly higher east of I-95 than in the western portion. This is caused by high traffic demand, rightturning vehicles, jay-walking pedestrians, active school zones, and inefficiencies in traffic signal operations. Issues differ by corridor segment and direction. Eastbound Broward Boulevard has congestion at a number of locations. In the morning, significant congestion occurs at I-95 Ramps and extends westward to approximately NW 29th Avenue. Extensive queuing and frequent cycle failure were observed.. Another section of eastbound AM congestion begins at approximately NW 11th Avenue and ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ extends to Andrews Avenue. Queuing and cycle failure have been observed frequently throughout this section. Traffic begins to distribute off of Broward Boulevard to the south at W 7th Avenue, Andrews Avenue and E 3rd Avenue. In the evening, commuters using westbound Broward Boulevard between Andrews Avenue and I-95 have a very unreliable experience. Traffic tends to congest and disperse in random patterns throughout this section which makes it very difficult for commuters to plan their trips. Conditions at any location in this segment fluctuate dramatically between gridlock and free flow in a matter of minutes. Transit Conditions Route 22 serves two stop locations that require significant detours from the corridor. The first major deviation from Broward Boulevard is at the Westfield Broward Mall. Leaving the West Regional Terminal, Route 22 crosses Broward Boulevard and serves stops near the Target store and the southern entrance of Westfield Broward Mall. The route rejoins Broward Boulevard at the intersection of University Drive. This deviation takes about 7 minutes. The second major deviation from Broward Boulevard is at Fort Lauderdale Station. An internal roadway network connecting the Park & Ride on the north side of Broward Boulevard and the station on the south side of Broward Boulevard is circuitous and slow. This deviation also takes approximately 7 minutes. ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ July 2012 are a number of locations where passenger ▪▪ There activity is relatively high. Figures 9 and 10 illustrate the level of boards and alighting, and the locations of the highest activities. Each high passenger activity location is discussed below. West Regional Terminal in Plantation serves a high number of transfers between Route 22 and other regional buses. It has the second highest volume of boardings and alightings for Route 22. This is an important transfer location for the route. Westfield Broward Mall has higher than average boarding activity starting midday and continuing through the evening hours. This demonstrates the need to continue serving one or more stops in the vicinity of the mall, despite the costly diversion. The SR-7/US-441 intersection is the most significant transfer location along the corridor outside of Broward Central Terminal. The current walking distance between stops coupled with busy intersection and signal timing creates an un-hospitable experience for transit riders needing to transfer. Boarding and alighting activity at the Ft. Lauderdale Station is lower than would be anticipated when compared with overall station activity. This is likely due to a number of factors. For trips starting or ending in Plantation or points further west, the roadway operations up to this point are not very congested. Personal vehicle travel is notably faster than buses on Route 22. A combination of off route detours and local stops may make it difficult for Route 22 to compete with the automobile. For trips starting or ending in Downtown Fort Lauderdale, there are a number of other public transportation services that connect Fort Lauderdale Station to Broward Central Terminal, specifically the three TriRail Shuttles. These services are “expresslike,” are timed to meet Tri-Rail trains, and are free of charge which makes them more attractive than Route 22. ▪▪ ▪▪ boarding and alighting activity is the ▪▪ The highest at Broward Central Terminal. While ▪▪ the terminal is located Downtown, it is not centrally located for most downtown employment. Transit operating on Broward Boulevard is impacted just as much by traffic conditions as automobiles are. In fact, they may be more impacted because they make frequent stops along the corridor which takes buses out of the signal progression flow. In summary, Broward Boulevard is being used to transport a very high volume of traffic. Given existing constraints, it is neither possible, nor desirable to widen the corridor enough to comfortably accommodate it all. This deficiency impacts transit more heavily than automobiles, which prevents transit from attracting more ridership, which leads to even greater congestion. Understanding of how corridor issues relate to each other and how transit vehicles interact with general traffic informed the development of the needs, goals, and objectives for the Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study. ▪▪ ▪▪ 31 SECTION 4 Purpose and Needs 33 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study STUDY CONTEXT The Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study is being conducted to identify and evaluate short-term transit improvements along Broward Boulevard between Pine Island Road and US-1. The purpose of these transit improvements is to: corridor transit mobility, ▪▪ Increase corridor transit ridership, ▪▪ Increase Increase to transit (bicycle, pedestrian, ▪▪ vehicular),access and ▪▪ Improve quality of transit service. This study is being conducted independently of other studies that are being conducted to identify and evaluate long-term transit investments in the Broward Boulevard Corridor. This purpose and need statement includes information gained through data collection and analysis of existing conditions, input received during stakeholder interviews, and data and input received during partner coordination meetings through May 13, 2011. Broward Boulevard provides east/west connection between US-1 and N. Flamingo Road. Broward Boulevard carries traffic between downtown Ft. Lauderdale and the communities of Plantation, Lauderhill, and Sunrise. Broward County Transit (BCT) operates Bus Route 22 which serves the entire study corridor; this study will mainly base analysis and comparison of existing and future conditions on this route. Figure 10 illustrates the study area and the location of Broward Boulevard. PROJECT NEEDS Based on the information collected and analyzed, the transit needs, or problems, in the Broward Boulevard Corridor are listed below and described in more detail in the following sections: transit travel time ▪▪ Poor Poor coordination ▪▪ Poor transfer and bicycle access to bus stops ▪▪ Poor pedestrian ridership compared to bus capacity ▪▪ 34 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. Poor Transit Travel Time Not all transit passengers are travelling the length of the study corridor. To identify the major trip patterns in the corridor, Longitudinal Employer- Household Dynamics (LEHD) data was used. This data is collected by the U.S. Census Bureau and provides information on where residents work and employees live in a given area. This data identified 19,600 people live in the study area (defined as ½-mile wide along the length of the corridor) and 53,400 people work in the corridor. Of the 53,400 people that work in the study area, only 2,300 people, or 4.2%, also live in the corridor. Figure 11 shows the location of jobs within the corridor. These jobs are generally located in four areas of the corridor, near University Drive, near SR7/US-441, just west of I-95, and in Downtown Fort Lauderdale. Figure 12 shows the household location of corridor workers. These data are helpful to understand the trip origins and destinations within the corridor. In April and May of 2010, Broward County Transit (BCT) and FDOT conducted a survey of transit passengers to determine where they are coming from (origins) and where they are going (destinations). This on-board survey was used to further understand the transit trip patterns of Route 22. Approximately 315 surveys were used in the analysis. An overview of trip progression along Broward Boulevard from the three primary activity centers (Broward Central Terminal, SR-7/US-441, and the West Regional Terminal) is shown on Figure 13. Broward Central Terminal near the eastern edge of the study area was confirmed as the busiest activity center. Nearly 20% of passengers surveyed boarded the system there. Trips that started at Broward Central Terminal ended at alighting points throughout the corridor. Only about 10% of trips starting at Broward Central Terminal continued all the way to West Regional Terminal. Stops at the intersection of Broward Boulevard and SR-7/US-441 compose the second busiest activity center. Approximately 10% of the surveyed passengers boarded the system at this intersection. The most significant destination for passengers at this location (approximately 40%) was University Drive and Westfield Broward Mall. Only 26% were destined for Downtown Fort Lauderdale and about 15% for the West Regional Terminal. Nearly 8% of passengers boarded the system at the West Regional Terminal. Of these passengers, roughly 30% headed further west towards Sawgrass Mills. The remaining 70% traveled east. Trips starting at the West Regional Terminal average to be much longer than those starting at Broward Central Terminal. Nearly 50% of all passengers boarding at the West Regional Terminal were destined for Downtown Fort Lauderdale. July 2012 Figure 11 – Location of Jobs within the Corridor Source: Longitudinal Employment and Housing Dynamics (LEHD) LEGEND Number of Jobs < 20 20 - 100 > 100 FIGURE 35 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Figure 12 – Location of Workers within the Corridor Source: Longitudinal Employment and Housing Dynamics (LEHD) LEGEND Number of Workers < 20 20 - 100 > 100 36 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. July 2012 Figure 13 – Route 22 Origin and Destination Patterns ( ! Boarding at Broward Central Terminal ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! 59 Surveys ( ! ( ! ( ! [ _ ( !! ( ( ! ( ! ! ! ( ( ( ! [ _ ! ( ( ! [ _ [ _ _ [ !! ( ( [ _ ( ! [ _ [ _ [ _[ ( ! _ ( ! [ _[ _ [ _[ _[ _ (! (! ! ( ( ! ( ! [ _ 10% ( ! ( [ (! ! _ ( ! [ _ [ (! ! ( _[ _ _[ _[ ( ! _ [[ _ ( ! ( ( ! ! ([ ! ([ ([ ! ( ! (! [ (! ! _!( [ _[ _ _ _ _ _ [[ _ [ _[ _ [ _ [ _!([ _ ( ! [ _ [ _ [ _ ( ! ! ( 64% ([ ! ( ! ([ ! _ _[ [ [ _ _!(!( [ [ __ _ ( ! ( ! [ [ ( ! _[ _ ( _ ! ( _ ! _[ [ ( ! _ _ [ _ _ [ [ [ _[ _!([ ( ! ! ( ( ! ( ! [ _ [ _ ! ( ( ! ! ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ! ( ( ! [ _[ _ ā 100%[ _ 88% ( ! _[ ( ( ! (! ! [ _ ( ! ([ _ [ ( ! ! _ [[ _ !(_ [ _ ([ ! ( ! [ ([ _ _[ _ _[ ( ! ! [ ([ ! ([ ! _ _ _ _[ [ [ _ _[ _[ _ [ _[ __ ( ! ( ! ! (( !! ( ( ! ( ! [ _ [ _ ( ! [ _!( ! ( ! ( ( ! ! ( ( ! ( ! ! ( ( ! ( ! [ _[ ( ! [ _ _ ! ( ( ! ( ! ( (! ! ( ! ! ( ( ! ( ! 69% [ !(_ _ ([ ! ( [ ! [[ _ _ !(_ [ [ !([ _!( [ _ [ _ _!( [ _ _[ _ ( ! [ _ ( ! !! ( ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! 32% ( ! [ _ ([ ! [ _ _ ( ! ( ! ! ( ( ! (! ! ( [ [ _ _ ( ! [ ( [ ! _ _[ _ [ _ ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! [ _ ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ! ( N ( ! (! ! ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! [ _ ( ! ( !! ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! Boarding at SR 7 29 Surveys ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! [ _ ( ! (! ! ( ( ! (! ( ( ! ! ( ! ! ! ( ( ( ! [ _ [ _ _ [ ( ! [ _ [ _ [ _[ ( ! _ ( ! [ _[ _ [ _[ _[ _ (! (! ! ( ( ! ( ! [ _ 15% ( ! ( [ (! ! _ [ _ ( ! [ [ _ _ [ _ [ (! ! ( _[ _ _[ _[ ( ! [ _ 44% ([ ! ( ! ([ ! _ _[ [ _ _!(!( [ _ [ _[ _ ( ! ( ! _ [[ _ ( ! ( ( ! ! ([ ! ([ ([ ! (! ( ! [ [ (! ! _!( _ _[ _ _ [ ā _ [ā _ _ ā [ _[ _ [ _!([ _ ( ! !! ( ( ( ! ( ! [ [ ( ! _[ _ ( _ ! ( _ ! _[ [ ( ! _ _ [ _ _ [ [ [ _[ _!([ ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ! ( ( ! [ _[ _ 26% [ _ 30% ( ! _[ ( ( ! (! ! [ _ ([ ( ! _ [ ( ! ! _ _ !(_ ([ ! [ [ ( ! _[ [ ([ _ _[ _ _[ ( ! ! [ _ ([ ! ([ ! _ _ _[ [ _ _ _[ _[ _ [ _[ _[ ( ! ( ! ! (( !! ( ( ! ( ! ( ! [ _ [ _ ( ! [ _!( ! ( ! ( ( ! ! ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! [ _[ ( ! [ _ _ ! ( ( ! ( ! ( (! ! ( ! ! ( ( ! 33% _ !(_ _ ([ ! ( [ ! [[ _ _ !([ [ [ !([ _!( [ _ [ _ _!( [ _ _[ _ ( ! [ _ ( ! ( ! [ _ ( ! [ _ ! ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! 56% ( ! [ _ [ _ [ _ [ _ ( ! ! ( ( ! ( ! ! ( ( ! ([ ! [ _ _ ! ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( !! ( ( ! [[ [ ( _ ! _ [ _ _ ( ! ! ( ( ! [ _ ( ! [ _ ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ! ( ( ! !! ( ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! [ _ ( ! ( !! ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! Boarding at West Broward Terminal ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! 23 Surveys ( ! ( ! ( ! [ _ ( ! (! ! ( ( ! (! ( ( ! ! ( ! ! ( ! ! ( ( ( ! [ _ ! ( ( ! !! ( ( [ _ [ _[ _ ( ! [ ( [ ! _ _[ _ [ _ [ _ ( ! Origin!( Station Transit Boarding [ _ Transit Alighting ( ! Trip Origin _ [ _ [ [ _ [ _ [ _ ( ! ā ( ! [ _ [ _ [ ( (! ! _[ _ _[ _[ ([ ! [ _ _ 65% ( ! [ _ ( ! _ [[ _ Trip Destination ! ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! [ _[ _ ( ( ! ! ([ ! (! ([ ([ ! ( ! [ (! ! _!( [ _[ _ _ _ _ _ [[ _ [ _!([ _ ([ ! ( ! ([ ! _ _[ _ _ [[ [ _ _ [ _!(!( !! ( ( ( ! ( ! [ [ ( ! _[ _ ( _ ! ( _ ! _[ [ ( ! _ _ _ [ _ [ [ [ _[ _!([ ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! [ _[ ( ! [ _ _ ( ! ! ( ( ! [ _[ _ [ _ ( ! 48% _[ ( (! ! ([ ( ! _ [ ( ! ! _ ([ ! _ !(_ [ [ ( ! _[ [ ([ _ _[ _ _[ ( ! ! [ ([ ! _ ([ ! _ _ _[ [ _ _ _[ _[ _ [ _[ _[ ( ! ! (( !! ( ( ! [ _ ( ! [ _ ( ! [ _ ! ( ( ! [ _!( ! ( ! ( ( ! ( ! ( (! ! ( ! ! ( ( ! 61% [ !(_ _ ([ ! ( [ ! [[ _ _ !(_ [ [ !([ _!( [ _ [ _ _!( [ _ _[ _ ( ! [ _ ( ! ( ! [ _ ( ! [ _ ! ( ( ! ( ! ! ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ! ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! [ _ ( ! ( !! ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ! ( ( ! ( !! ( ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! [ _ [ _ ( ! [ _ _ [ ā ( ! 70% [ _ [ _ [ _[ _!( [ ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( [ ! ([ ! _ _ _ ( ! [ _ ( ! [ _ ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! ( ! FIGURE 37 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Poor Transfer Coordination Route 22 intersects with several north/south transit routes along Broward Boulevard. The highest transfer locations in the corridor are at the West Regional Terminal, SR-7/US-441 and Broward Central Terminal. The scheduled arrival times for intersecting routes are not often coordinated, and passengers can wait up to 30 minutes to connect to the next leg of their trip. This transfer time is not included in the transit travel times listed above, and further lengthens the transit travel time for passengers that transfer between transit routes. Poor Pedestrian and Bicycle Access to Bus Stops Pedestrian and bicycle access to bus stops along Broward Boulevard is poor. While the sidewalk system is complete along the corridor, the bike lanes are incomplete. Bus stops are oftentimes located far away from the intersection, which requires bicyclists and pedestrians to travel farther to reach the bus stop than may be necessary. Transit stops along Broward Boulevard often provide inadequate shade or shelter. The block sizes along Broward Boulevard are unusually long for a successful transit corridor, and, therefore, the locations in which pedestrians and bicyclists can safely cross Broward Boulevard are far apart. In some areas of the corridor, crossings are as great as half of a mile apart. The pedestrian and bicycle connections between major transfer locations is poor. For example, the location of the bus stops that serve as the connection between Route 22 and Routes 18 and the 441 Breeze are up to 1300 feet apart. The signal timing also contributes to the pedestrian delay. Field reviews reveal that passengers at this intersection often run between stops to make their connections, crossing against the light between traffic. According to FDOT crash data from 2007 to 2009, in the section of Broward Boulevard between University Drive and US-1, 62 pedestrian crashes and 23 bicycle crashes occurred. Of these, two were fatal crashes. A preliminary safety review was conducted to identify clusters of pedestrian and bicycle crashes along the corridor. Several sections of the corridor have high levels of pedestrian or bicycle crashes. These include the following areas along Broward Boulevard: 38 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 35th Avenue to NW 30th Avenue: 28 crashes ▪▪ NW (2 of these fatal); about 14 of these crashes ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ occurred near 31st Ave. NW 1st Avenue to SE 1st Avenue: 16 crashes. The Broward Central Terminal is located on the north side of this portion of the corridor. NW 15th Avenue to Palm Avenue: 11 crashes. A school zone is present on this portion of the corridor. Salvation Army facilities, the Jack and Jill Children’s Center and the Fort Lauderdale Police Department are located on the north and south side of the corridor. NW 24th Avenue to NW 27th Avenue: 9 crashes. The Broward County Sheriff’s Office is located on the north side of this portion of the corridor. SR-7 to Vermont Avenue: 8 crashes. As previously noted, this portion of the corridor is an important transfer location. Poor Ridership Compared to Bus Capacity Route 22 has a weekday ridership of approximately 3,580. It has one of the highest levels of Saturday ridership in the BCT system with about 3,560 boardings. Sunday ridership is less than half of Saturday ridership (1,330 boardings). Overall, this ridership uses only 21% of the total weekly capacity of Route 22. PROJECT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES The issues listed outline the specific transit needs in the corridor. To be successful, transit investments must meet transportation needs, while also supporting community and agency goals and objectives. Goals and objectives have been developed for each of the identified transit needs, and for the general community and agency goals that were expressed during stakeholder and Partner engagement activities. The relationship between purpose, needs, goals and objectives is illustrated below. There may be one or more goals for each need, and one or more objectives for each goal. Purpose Needs This low utilization can be attributed to several factors, including the long travel times, the quality of the transit trip, the reliability/predictability of transit service in the corridor, and the level and quality of information that is provided to potential riders. Goals Objectives July 2012 Table 5 summarizes the transit goals and objectives of the project. These were jointly developed by the project planning team and the Partners. In addition to the transit-specific needs, goals and objectives, a successful transit investment must also support community goals and should be developed to minimize environmental impacts so that it can be permitted. Transit investments should support local and regional plans and visions, and will perform best when these plans produce transit-supportive land uses. The previous draft community and environment goals and objectives have been developed based on input received from corridor stakeholders and partners. Table 5 - Transit Needs, Goals and Objectives Purpose Needs Increase corridor transit mobility Poor transit travel time Poor transfer coordination Increase access to transit Goals Decrease transit travel time throughout the corridor with specific attention to differing needs in the two sections of the corridor divided at Fort Lauderdale Station Improve transfer experience Poor ped/bike access Convenient access to bus stops Safe access Improve Quality of Transit Service Poor ridership compared to service capacity Improve transit travel experience for existing and new riders Invest in transit that supports local and regional plans and visions Community and Environment Goals and Objectives Financial and Implementation Goals and Objectives Objectives ▪▪ Decrease signal delay ▪▪ Decrease dwell time ▪▪ Increase operating speeds between stops sidewalk/bike system to meet DOT ▪▪ Complete standards ▪▪ Improve ped/bike bus stop facilities ▪▪ Increase ped/bike crossing locations ▪▪ Increase corridor transit ridership ▪▪ Improve transit reliability ▪▪ Integrate fare system transit oriented corridor ▪▪ Support development goals ▪▪ Support local plans ▪▪ Support regional plans Invest in transit that minimizes community and environmental impacts ▪▪ Minimize business impacts ▪▪ Minimize residential impacts ▪▪ Minimize environmental (air quality) impacts Invest in transit solutions that are cost-feasible ▪▪ Transit solutions are cost-feasible Invest in transit solutions that can be implemented in the near term (2-3 years) solutions are implementable in the ▪▪ Transit next 2-3 years 39 SECTION 5 Alternatives Development 41 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study PROCESS The project team followed a specific process to go from the agreed upon purpose and needs to a set of alternatives and ultimately a preferred alternative. Identified in Figure 14, this two‐tiered process was developed to evaluate the scenarios and perform the alternatives analysis. This evaluation was conducted by first and foremost developing a long list of strategies, which were then screened by a specific group of criteria, resulting in a short list of strategies. With agreement from the Partners and FDOT, the short list of strategies was then grouped by location and applicable purpose and needs goal. From that point, the groups were then packaged into a set of alternatives. Once the alternative packages were developed, they were evaluated using measures of effectiveness identified under the purpose and needs component of the project. Based on those results, the preferred alternative/concept was selected. Detailed information about each phase of the process is described throughout the remainder of this section. Partners: FDOT, Broward MPO, BCT, BCTED, SFRTA, Broward County, and the Cities of Plantation, Lauderhill, and Fort Lauderdale Figure 14 - Alternative Selection Process Long List of Strategies Tier 1 Screening Short List of Strategies Partners, FDOT, Team Grouping By Location: • Single • Segment • Corridor By Purpose and Needs Alternatives/Packages Tier 2 Analysis Partners, FDOT, Team Concept 42 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. July 2012 LONG LIST OF STRATEGIES Table 6 below summarizes the long list of strategies identified by the project team, FDOT, and the Partners. Each was considered in project development process. The strategies were grouped into the following categories: Road and Transit Facilities (Runningway Strategies, Roadway/Traffic Operations Strategies, Transit Operation Strategies), Passenger Facilities (Facilities Transfers, Pedestrian/Bike Access, Travel Experience), and Transit Supportive Policies. A description has been provided for each strategy to provide clarity. Table 6 - Long List of Strategies Strategies Strategy Description Road and Transit Facilities Runningway Strategies Median Busway Dedicated two-way bus lane within the median of the roadway separated from the general purpose lanes by a barrier Concurrent Interior Bus Lane Dedicated inside bus lane by direction eliminating a General Purpose (GP) lane or adding a lane Concurrent Curb Bus Lane/Business Access and Transit (BAT) lane A. Dedicated curbside bus lane by direction eliminating a GP lane – could operate full time or just in peak direction B. Dedicated curbside bus lane by direction adding a lane Mixed Bus/HOV Lane Dedicated curbside lane for buses and HOV vehicles - requires bus pullouts at stops Contra-Flow Bus Lane Contra-flow dedicated median bus lane Part-time Bus Lane Same as Concurrent Curb Bus Lane/BAT lane (A) Bus Lane with Intermittent Priority (BLIMP) Lanes Research level (Bus Lane with Intermittent Priority (BLIMP) Concept Simulation Analysis; Report Number FTA-FL-26-7109.2009.8) Mixed Traffic Flow Transit would travel in mixed traffic as is currently performed Queue Bypass Lanes Extending right turn (RT) lane or adding a transit- only lane for a portion of the roadway segment leading through an intersection that experiences significant and consistent queuing. Requires detection and advance green indication to advance the bus in front of the platoon. Bus Bulbs Curb and sidewalk extends out towards the travel lane to facilitate easier passenger boarding Bus Pullout Bus stop position located outside of the travel lane Roadway/Traffic Operations Strategies Access Management Modifying access and median opening locations Right-Turn Restrictions Restricting right turns at specific times Left-Turn Restrictions Restricting left turns at specific times Signal Timing Enhancements (Optimization, ITS, TSM&O) Signal timing optimization to improve general traffic performance Advanced Transit Signal Timing Advanced strategies that adjust signal timing parameters along portions of the corridor in anticipation of the arrival of the platoon of traffic 43 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Table 6 - Long List of Strategies (Cont’) Strategies Special Signal Phasing Passive Signal Priority for transit Active Signal Priority for transit Queue Jump Lanes Capacity Improvements at Intersections Rerouting Service (travel time) Strategy Description Implementation of special transit signal phasing strategy that brings up left or right turn phase when the bus requires it (multiple points in single cycle) Signal timing to promote transit movement Active transit detection and dynamic signal modification to promote transit movement Addition of a right-turn signal phase that clears the right turn lane and allows buses to advance into the intersection ahead of through traffic. Requires detection and advance green indication to advance the bus in front of the platoon and back into the travel lane. Addition of lanes to increase capacity Transit Operation Strategies Adjusting the route of the bus at certain locations to improve travel time and reduce delay Bus Stop Location (Far-side, Near-side, Mid-block) Relocating and/or adding bus stop locations Bus Stop Consolidation Combining certain bus stops to improve overall bus speeds Skip-Stop Service Type of transit service where bus stops are grouped into two to four alternating patterns, improving bus speeds Limited Stop Overlay Service Transit service provided during peak period or all day where minor stops are skipped. This service would be added to the existing local service that provides coverage to all current stops. Intelligent Transportation Systems Transit vehicle location, communication for transfers, computer aided dispatch/automated vehicle location Off-vehicle fare collection Off-vehicle fare collection at selected high-activity stops Level boarding Level boarding at selected locations. Station improvements associated with higher level transit service (Bus Rapid Transit) Coordinated scheduling Route scheduling to facilitate easy service-to-service transfers Passenger Facilities Facilities Transfers Relocate bus stops (at key transfers) Improve connection between transfer stops Pedestrian/Bike Access Infill sidewalk gaps to complete system Construct missing sections of sidewalk within a ½ mile of Broward Boulevard. Standard 5’ wide sidewalk per FDOT Plans Preparation Manual (PPM) Chapter 8 where appropriate. Infill bike lane gaps to complete system Construct missing bike lanes along Broward Boulevard. The implementation should be conducted as part of a separate project (no transit). Add/relocate pedestrian crossings Add or relocate pedestrian crossings at intersections Pedestrian technology/ wayfinding Add pedestrian countdown signal heads and signage to improve pedestrians mobility Secure & well lit stops Broward County Transit (BCT) amenities and shelters project (2014) will include this. This project may recommend common branding coordination. Covered secure bicycle parking Installing bicycle parking that offers a sense of security 44 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. July 2012 Table 6 - Long List of Strategies (Cont’) Strategies Strategy Description Travel Experience Passenger information Schedules – web, printed and posted; Real time information – stationary & mobile Integrated fare payment options Smart card payment Integrated trip planning tools website, smartphone Bus stop shelters BCT amenities and shelters project (2014) will include this. This project may recommend common branding coordination. Transit Supportive Policies Public Parking Modify public parking policy to encourage transit use TIER 1 SCREENING: PLANNING-LEVEL EVALUATION The purpose of the Tier One screening process was to assess the long list of alternatives/strategies and determine which ones should be carried forward into the detailed alternatives analysis. The screening process was developed based on four key elements that related to the ability of the strategy support project needs, goals and objectives for short-term transit improvements in the corridor. Figure 15 portrays the screening process and four elements. The four elements of time, space, cost, and compatibility were selected as the key screening criteria due to the known constraints of the project. Figure 15 - Strategy Short List Selection Criteria TIME Short term (2-3 Years) Mid term (5-10 Years) Long Term (10-20 Years) SPACE Within Right-of-Way Outside Right-of-Way COST Less Than $5M More Than $5M COMPATIBILITY Does it generally support local or regional plan? Yes No Short List of Strategies 45 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Application process Each strategy from the long list was screened using the following steps: 1 Time screening 2 Space Screening Apply the strategy to the Time criterion. If the strategy could be implemented within two –three years, the strategy would remain as a potential short-term solution (the focus of this study is on short-term solutions) and move forward to Step 2. Strategies that could not be implemented within 2-3 years would not move forward as short-term improvements in the screening process. 3 Cost Screening Strategies that passed through the Time criterion would then be assessed by the Space criterion. If the strategy could be implemented within existing right-of-way, the strategy would remain as a potential short-term solution and move forward to Step 3. Strategies that could not be implemented within existing right-of-way would not move forward in the screening process. Strategies that passed through the Space criterion would then be assessed by the Cost criterion. If the strategy could be implemented for less than $5 Million, the strategy would remain as a potential short-term solution and move forward to Step 4. Strategies that could not be implemented for less than $5 Million would not move forward in the screening process. 4 Compatibility Screening Strategies that passed through the Cost criterion would then be assessed by the Compatibility criterion. If the strategy was generally supportive of local and regional plans, the strategy would remain as a potential short-term solution and move forward into the Tier 2 Analysis and Screening. Strategies that were not compatible with local and regional plans would not move forward into the alternative development process. SHORT LIST OF STRATEGIES Based on the Tier 1 screening process, the long list was condensed to the short list shown in Table 7. Appendix C contains a comprehensive table that summarizes the long list to short list screening which was agreed to by the Partners at Partner Meeting #2 held in July 2011. Table 7 - Short List of Strategies STRATEGIES STRATEGY DESCRIPTION Road and Transit Facilities Runningway Strategies Concurrent Curb Bus Lane/Business Access and Transit (BAT) lane Dedicated curbside bus lane by direction eliminating a GP lane – could operate full time or just in peak direction Mixed Traffic Flow Dedicated curbside lane for buses and HOV vehicles - requires bus pullouts at stops Bus Bulbs Curb and sidewalk extends out towards the travel lane to facilitate easier passenger boarding Bus Pullout Bus stop position located outside of the travel lane 46 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. July 2012 Table 7 - Short List of Strategies (Cont’) STRATEGIES STRATEGY DESCRIPTION Roadway/Traffic Operations Strategies Access Management Modifying access and median opening locations Right-Turn Restrictions Restricting right turns at specific times Left-Turn Restrictions Restricting left turns at specific times Signal Timing Enhancements (Optimization, ITS, TSM&O) Signal timing optimization to improve general traffic performance Advanced Transit Signal Timing Advanced strategies that adjust signal timing parameters along portions of the corridor in anticipation of the arrival of the platoon of traffic Special Signal Phasing Implementation of special transit signal phasing strategy that brings up left or right turn phase when the bus requires it (multiple points in single cycle) Passive Signal Priority for transit Signal timing to promote transit movement Active Signal Priority for transit Active transit detection and dynamic signal modification to promote transit movement Queue Jump Lanes Addition of a right-turn signal phase that clears the right turn lane and allows buses to advance into the intersection ahead of through traffic. Requires detection and advance green indication to advance the bus in front of the platoon and back into the travel lane. Transit Operation Strategies Rerouting Service (travel time) Adjusting the route of the bus at certain locations to improve travel time and reduce delay Bus Stop Location (Far-side, Near-side, Mid-block) Relocating and/or adding bus stop locations Bus Stop Consolidation Combining certain bus stops to improve overall bus speeds Skip-Stop Service Type of transit service where bus stops are grouped into two to four alternating patterns, improving bus speeds Limited Stop Overlay Service Transit service provided during peak period or all day where minor stops are skipped. This service would be added to the existing local service that provides coverage to all current stops. Intelligent Transportation Systems Transit vehicle location, communication for transfers, computer aided dispatch/automated vehicle location Off-vehicle fare collection Off-vehicle fare collection at selected high-activity stops Coordinated scheduling Route scheduling to facilitate easy service-to-service transfers Passenger Facilities Facilities Transfers Relocate bus stops (at key transfers) Improve connection between transfer stops 47 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Table 7 - Short List of Strategies (Cont’) STRATEGIES Infill sidewalk gaps to complete system Infill bike lane gaps to complete system STRATEGY DESCRIPTION Pedestrian/Bike Access Construct missing sections of sidewalk within a ½ mile of Broward Boulevard. Standard 5’ wide sidewalk per FDOT Plans Preparation Manual (PPM) Chapter 8 where appropriate. Construct missing bike lanes along Broward Boulevard. The implementation should be conducted as part of a separate project (no transit). Add/relocate pedestrian crossings Add or relocate pedestrian crossings at intersections Pedestrian technology/wayfinding Add pedestrian countdown signal heads and signage to improve pedestrians mobility Secure & well lit stops Broward County Transit (BCT) amenities and shelters project (2014) will include this. This project may recommend common branding coordination. Covered secure bicycle parking Installing bicycle parking that offers a sense of security Travel Experience Passenger information Schedules – web, printed and posted; Real time information – stationary & mobile Bus stop shelters BCT amenities and shelters project (2014) will include this. This project may recommend common branding coordination. ALTERNATIVES/PACKAGES Upon development of the short list of strategies, the project team developed four succinct alternatives that were ultimately reviewed, revised, and agreed to by the Partners at the third Partner Meeting held in November 2011. In summary, the four alternatives are as follows: Alternative 2: Enhanced Local Service Alternative 1: Future Baseline / No-Build Alternative 3: Enhanced Local Service + Limited Stop/Rapid Service The Future Baseline Alternative includes transit and signal capital improvements already programmed and funded. This alternative serves as the basis of comparison for the build alternatives. Detailed scopes for these projects are provided in Appendix A 48 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. The Enhanced Local Service Alternative maintains the current Route 22 scheduled service. It includes strategies to reduce delay that currently impacts route performance and to increase access to the system by pedestrians and cyclists. The Enhanced Local Service and Additional Limited Stop/Rapid Service Alternative alters frequency of local service from 15 minute to 20 minute headways and adds limited stop service from West Regional Terminal at a 20-minute frequency. Broward Boulevard will have a Route 22 bus every 10 minutes. Route 22 Limited Stop Service will not deviate from Broward Boulevard and will extend into downtown Fort Lauderdale. Alternative 4: Enhanced Local Service + Limited Stop/Rapid Service + Business Access and Transit Lane The Enhanced Local and Limited Stop/Rapid Service with Shared Business Access and Transit (BAT) Lane Alternative includes local service with 20-minute frequency, limited stop service at 20-minute frequency, and the conversion of the curb-side lane between SR-7 and E 3rd Avenue to a shared lane for buses and rightturning vehicles. Limited stop service will not divert off of Broward Boulevard and will extend into downtown Fort Lauderdale. July 2012 Table 8 provides a comprehensive summary of each alternative including strategies per alternative, their costs, and implementing agency. Appendix D contains the alternative conceptual design plans. Table 8 - Alternative Description Summary Alternative 1 Future Baseline / No-Build The Future Baseline Alternative includes transit and signal capital improvements already programmed and funded. This alternative serves as the basis of comparison for the build alternatives. Planned Projects Location Potential Implementing Agency Cost Year Broward Central Terminal Renovations Broward Central Terminal BCT $1,330,000 2014 West Regional Terminal Renovations West Regional Terminal BCT $330,000 2014 New Bus Shelters and Amenities Systemwide BCT $1,550,000 2014 New Buses Route 22 BCT $6,800,000 2014 Median Landscaping Pine Island Rd to Andrews Avenue (some portions have been completed) Fort Lauderdale / Plantation $286,000 2014 Universal Fare Card Systemwide Various $1,320,000 2013 Broward County Greenlights Program Systemwide BCTED $21,500 / year 2012 FDOT $9,100,000 2012 Plantation/BCTED $4,192,000 2012 ATMS Signal Upgrades University Drive to US-1 84th Avenue Intersection Improvements 84th Avenue from American Expressway to Federated Road Broward Blvd RRR/ Bridge Replacement Broward Boulevard from I-95 to NW 7th Avenue/North Fork River FDOT $2,000,000 2014 18th Avenue Signal Improvement (LT & Ped phase) Broward Boulevard/NW 18th Avenue FDOT $700,000 2012 Flagler Greenway Sunrise Boulevard south to Tarpon River Fort Lauderdale $2,000,000 2012 TOTAL > $20,000,000 49 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Table 8 - Alternative Description Summary Alternative 2 Enhanced Local Service The Enhanced Local Service Alternative maintains the current Route 22 scheduled service. It includes strategies to reduce delay that currently impacts route performance and to increase access to the system by pedestrians and cyclists. 50 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. Elements Location Potential Implementing Agency Cost Year Various Varies Varies All Alternative 1 Future Baseline elements Corridorwide Queue Jumps SR-7/U-441 (WB and EB), SW 24th Avenue FDOT/BCTED/BCT $150,000 2015 Transit Signal Priority Corridorwide/Route 22 Fleet and Shuttles BCTED/BCT/TMA/ SFRTA $640,000 2014 Special Signal Phasing Pine Island Road, NW 84th Avenue, University Drive FDOT/BCTED $13,500 2014 Secure Bicycle Storage West Regional Terminal and Broward Central Terminal BCT $30,400 2014 Bus Stop Location Changes SR-7/US-441 (EB, WB, and SB) FDOT/BCT $165,000 2014 Tri-Rail loop intersection control alterations Fort Lauderdale Station Loop FDOT/SFRTA $2,000 2014 Sidewalk Connections Corridorwide (1/2 mile north and south of Broward Boulevard) FDOT/Fort Lauderdale/ Lauderhill/Plantation $965,000 2014 Crosswalks NW 59th Avenue, SW 54th Avenue, Acre Drive, NW 34th Avenue FDOT/Fort Lauderdale/ Lauderhill/Plantation $60,000 2014 Pedestrian Countdown Signals Corridorwide BCTED $408,000 2014 Broward Boulevard Pedestrian Mobility Connections North and south side of Broward Boulevard between University Drive and Federated Road FDOT/Plantation $150,000 2014 Transit Signage/ Wayfinding Corridorwide FDOT/BCT $300,000 2014 TOTAL $2,883,900 July 2012 Table 8 - Alternative Description Summary (Cont’) Alternative 3 Enhanced Local Service + Limited Stop/Rapid Service The Enhanced Local Service and Additional Limited Stop/Rapid Service Alternative alters frequency of local service from 15 minute to 20 minute intervals and adds limited stop service from West Regional Terminal at a 20-minute frequency. Broward Boulevard will have a Route 22 bus every 10 minutes. Route 22 Limited Stop Service will not deviate from Broward Boulevard and will extend into Downtown Fort Lauderdale. Elements Location Potential Implementing Agency Cost Year Various Varies Varies All Alternative 1 Future Baseline elements Corridorwide Queue Jumps University Drive, SR-7/US-441 (NB, SB, EB, WB), SW 24th Avenue, SW 1st Avenue FDOT/BCTED/BCT $400,000 2015 Transit Signal Priority Corridorwide/Route 22 Fleet and Shuttles FDOT/BCTED/BCT $640,000 2014 Special Signal Phasing Pine Island Road, NW 84th Avenue, University Drive FDOT/BCTED $13,500 2014 Secure Bicycle Storage West Regional Terminal and Broward Central Terminal BCT $30,400 2014 Bus Stop Location Changes SR-7/US-441 (EB, WB, NB and SB), Broward Blvd at Fort Lauderdale Station (EB, WB), W 1st Ave (EB, WB) FDOT/BCT $440,000 2014 Fort Lauderdale Station loop intersection control alterations Tri-Rail Station Loop FDOT/SFRTA $2,000 2014 Sidewalk Connections Corridorwide (1/2 mile north and south of Broward Boulevard) FDOT/Fort Lauderdale/ Lauderhill/Plantation $965,000 2014 Crosswalks NW 59th Avenue, SW 54th Avenue, E Acre Drive, NW 34th Avenue FDOT/Fort Lauderdale/ Lauderhill/Plantation $60,000 2014 Pedestrian Countdown Signals Corridorwide BCTED $408,000 2014 Broward Boulevard Pedestrian Mobility Connections North and south side of Broward Boulevard between University Drive and Federated Road FDOT/Plantation $150,000 2015 Transit Signage/ Wayfinding Corridorwide FDOT/BCT $300,000 2014 Limited Stop Service (does not divert off of Broward Boulevard) Additional Annual Operating Cost - Not funded through this project Serving West Regional Terminal, Westfield Broward Mall, University Drive, SR-7/US-441, SW 31st Avenue, Fort Lauderdale Station, NW 18th Avenue, NW 11th Avenue, Broward Central Terminal, Local Downtown Fort Lauderdale Stops BCT $585,000 2016 51 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Table 8 - Alternative Description Summary (Cont’) Alternative 3 (Cont.) Enhanced Local Service + Limited Stop/Rapid Service Elements Location Potential Implementing Agency Cost Year FDOT/BCT/Plantation $30,000 2015 Park-and-Ride Lot at West Regional Terminal NW Quadrant of University Drive/Broward Boulevard Pedestrian Connection between Broward Boulevard and Fort Lauderdale Station Fort Lauderdale Station, adjacent to Broward Boulevard FDOT/SFRTA/BCT $450,000 2016 Pedestrian Crossing at Westfield Broward Mall West of University Drive Gateway Hub FDOT/Plantation $250,000 2015 TOTAL $4,138,900 Potential Implementing Agency Cost Year Various Varies Varies Table 8 - Alternative Description Summary (Cont’) Alternative 4 Enhanced Local Service + Limited Stop/Rapid Service + Business Access and Transit Lane The Enhanced Local and Limited Stop/Rapid Service with Shared Business Access and Transit (BAT) Lane Alternative includes local service with 20-minute frequency, limited stop service at 20-minute frequency, and the conversion of the curb-side lane between SR-7/US-441 and E 3rd Avenue to a shared lane for buses and right-turns. Limited stop service will not divert off of Broward Boulevard and will extend into Downtown Fort Lauderdale. 52 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. Elements Location All Alternative 1 Future Baseline elements Corridorwide Queue Jumps University Drive, SR-7/US-441 (NB, SB), SW 24th Avenue, SW 1st Avenue FDOT/BCTED/BCT $300,000 2015 Transit Signal Priority Corridorwide/Route 22 Fleet and Shuttles FDOT/BCTED/BCT $640,000 2014 Special Signal Phasing Pine Island Road, NW 84th Avenue, University Drive FDOT/BCTED $13,500 2014 Secure Bicycle Storage West Regional Terminal and Broward Central Terminal BCT $30,400 2014 Bus Stop Location Changes SR-7/US-441 (EB, WB, NB and SB), Broward Boulevard at Fort Lauderdale Station (EB, WB), W 1st Avenue (EB, WB) FDOT/BCT $440,000 2014 Fort Lauderdale Station loop intersection control alterations Fort Lauderdale Station Loop FDOT/SFRTA $2,000 2014 Sidewalk Connections Corridorwide (1/4 mile north and south of Broward Boulevard) FDOT/Fort Lauderdale/ Lauderhill/Plantation $965,000 2014 Crosswalks NW 59th Avenue, SW 54th Avenue, E Acre Drive, NW 34th Avenue FDOT/Fort Lauderdale/ Lauderhill/Plantation $60,000 2014 July 2012 Table 8 - Alternative Description Summary (Cont’) Alternative 4 (Cont’) Enhanced Local Service + Limited Stop/Rapid Service + Business Access and Transit Lane The Enhanced Local and Limited Stop/Rapid Service with Shared Business Access and Transit (BAT) Lane Alternative includes local service with 20-minute frequency, limited stop service at 20-minute frequency, and the conversion of the curb-side lane between SR-7/US-441 and E 3rd Avenue to a shared lane for buses and right-turns. Limited stop service will not divert off of Broward Boulevard and will extend into Downtown Fort Lauderdale. Elements Location Potential Implementing Agency Cost Year BCTED $408,000 2014 FDOT/Plantation $150,000 2015 FDOT/BCT $300,000 2014 BCT $297,000 2016 FDOT/BCT/Plantation $30,000 2015 Pedestrian Countdown Signals Corridorwide Broward Boulevard Pedestrian Mobility Connections North and south side of Broward Boulevard between University Drive and Federated Road Transit Signage/ Wayfinding Corridorwide Limited Stop Service (does not divert off of Broward Boulevard) Additional Annual Operating Cost - Not funded through this project Serving West Regional Terminal, Westfield Broward Mall, University Drive, SR-7/US-441, SW 31st Avenue, Fort Lauderdale Station, NW 18th Avenue, NW 11th Avenue, Broward Central Terminal, Local Downtown Fort Lauderdale Stops Park-and-Ride Lot at West Regional Terminal NW Quadrant of University Drive/Broward Boulevard Pedestrian Connection between Broward Boulevard and Fort Lauderdale Station Fort Lauderdale Station, adjacent to Broward Boulevard FDOT/SFRTA/BCT $450,000 2016 Pedestrian Crossing at Westfield Broward Mall West of University Drive Gateway Hub FDOT/Plantation $250,000 2015 FDOT (enforcement BSO) $2,490,000 2020** TOTAL $6,528,900 Business Access and Transit Lanes (signing, SR-7/US-441 to Andrews Avenue striping, branding, RT lane retrofitting) *Does not include MPO ~$8+ Million Hub Funds **Not part of this project, but considered a long term goal by the Partners 53 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study CONSIDERATION IN ALTERNATIVES DEVELOPMENT The alternatives were developed using the strategy shortlist as the toolbox, the purpose and needs as the objectives, and the future baseline conditions as the canvas. With the exception of Alternative 1, Future Baseline / No Build, the alternatives are intended to provide the most benefit to transit operations at various levels of investment. Additional to operational improvements that are discussed in the Tier 2 Analysis, the project team also reviewed local comprehensive plans, distributions of environmental justice communities, and safety concerns to ensure that none of the alternatives counteract community goals or create new problems for vulnerable populations. It was found that the City of Fort Lauderdale and the City of Plantation have land use policies in place affecting most of the corridor that are supportive of higher density mixed use development that correspond well to premium transit services. As the designated activity centers develop and new development increases densities, it will become even more important that Broward Boulevard is served well by transit. None of the alternatives propose removing existing services that would have a detrimental impact on vulnerable or environmental justice communities. The proposed reduction in local service frequency on Route 22 is off-set by the new limited stop overlay service that will improve overall corridor headways. Overlay service stop locations have been designated throughout lower income portions of the corridor. Bicycle and pedestrian crash histories were reviewed throughout the corridor. Several crash “hot spots” were identified. Most of these locations were explainable as high volume locations where pedestrians have to cross Broward Boulevard to access bus stops. Particularly noteworthy were crashes in the vicinity of W 35th Avenue and SR-7/US-441. Bus stops at SR-7/ US-441 are placed at a long distance from the intersection. These distances combined with lengthy signal intervals and long bus headways encourage risky mid-block crossings for transit riders making transfers or trying to reach a bus on the other side of the road before it leaves the stop. All three build alternatives attempt to address this issue through modified or new bus stop locations. 54 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. TIER 2 ANALYSIS: ALTERNATIVES EVALUATION The Tier 2 Analysis’ purpose was to create an evaluation system that would objectively and quantitatively show how each alternative performed in terms of meeting the project’s purpose and need, goals and objectives. Ultimately, the outcomes from the evaluation would allow for an informed, collective decision to be made by the project team and Partners on selecting the proposed concept for implementation. The evaluation matrix, Table 9, summarizes the measures of effectiveness identified for evaluating whether or not an alternative met the goals of the project. A description of the processes and results of this analysis is provided in Appendix F. Despite the goal of avoiding the need for right-of-way, a few bus stop location improvements were deemed important enough to consider. Attempts will be made to negotiate easement rights with affected property owners. Alternative 4 has the potential to negatively impact traffic along Broward Boulevard. While this alternative provides many attractive benefits for transit service, these impacts must be researched more thoroughly and the public must be involved before this alternative could move forward. July 2012 Potential Impacts Potential Benefits Table 9 - Alternative Description Summary Capital Cost Operations and Maintenance Cost Objectives Segment Pine Island to University University to SR 7 Decreased transit delay at SR 7 to I-95 signalized intersections (Minutes) I-95 to US-1 Total Pine Island to University University to SR 7 Increased transit access (Miles of New Sidewalk/# of bus stops with SR 7 to I-95 improved access) I-95 to US-1 Total Population Type Pine Island to University Increased coverage (Jobs and University to SR 7 Persons) SR 7 to I-95 I-95 to US-1 Pine Island to University University to SR 7 Right-of-way Requirements due to SR 7 to I-95 bus stop shelters (Square footage) I-95 to US-1 Total Increased vehicular delay on Pine Island to University Broward Boulevard due to BAT lane University to SR 7 (Minutes) SR 7 to I-95 I-95 to US-1 Total Increased vehicular traffic on Pine Island to University parallel facilities due to BAT lanes University to SR 7 (Vehicles) SR 7 to I-95 I-95 to US-1 Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3 Alternative 4 Future Baseline (2014) Enhanced Local Service Enhanced Local Service + Limited Stop/ Express Service ~$20M-$25M ~$4.54M (to run existing) AM (EB) PM (WB) DNA DNA -1.0 DNA -3.0 -1.0 -3.0 -0.5 -7.0 -1.5 0 0 0 0 0 Jobs Workers 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ~2.9M OVER BASELINE COST ~$4.24M (to run existing) AM (EB) PM (WB) DNA DNA -2.0 DNA -4.5 -1.5 -4.0 -1.0 -10.5 -2.5 0.63 Miles / 4 stops 0.63 Miles / 6 Stops 2.22 Miles / 10 Stops 2.16 Miles / 10 Stops 5.64 Miles / 30 Stops Jobs Workers 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 135 ft2 0 135 ft2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ~$4.1M OVER BASELINE COST ~$5.13M (to run local and limited) AM (EB) PM (WB) DNA DNA -2.0 DNA -4.5 -1.5 -4.0 -1.0 -10.5 -2.5 0.63 Miles / 4 stops 0.63 Miles / 6 Stops 2.53 Miles /14 Stops (2 new) 2.16 Miles / 10 Stops (6 new) 5.95 Miles / 34 Stops (8 new) Jobs Workers 0 0 0 0 0 0 6874 730 0 135 ft2 135 ft2 0 270 ft2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Enhanced Local Service + Limited Stop/ Express Service + Business Access and Transit Lane ~$6.5M OVER BASELINE COST ~$4.84M (to run local and limited) AM (EB) PM (WB) DNA DNA -3.0 DNA -8.5 -2.5 -8.0 -3.5 -18.5 -6.0 0.63 Miles / 4 stops 0.63 Miles / 6 Stops 2.53 Miles /14 Stops (2 new) 2.16 Miles / 10 Stops (6 new) 5.95 Miles / 34 Stops (8 new) Jobs Workers 0 0 0 0 0 0 6874 730 0 135 ft2 135 ft2 0 270 ft2 DNA DNA DNA DNA 14 20 16 20 30 40 0 0 0 0 2210 2760 2275 2340 Notes: Only Peak Hour Direction reported for peak period: AM = Eastbound direction, PM = Westbound direction DNA = Data not available *Appendix E contains background analytical information regarding the methodology, data, and tools used in the evaluation. 55 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study PROPOSED CONCEPT BY PARTNERS Based on the evaluation results, the project team and Partners collectively agreed to move forward with Alternative 3: Enhanced Local Service + Limited Stop/ Rapid Service. The Partners agreed that this alternative met the projects goals and pushed the region to try something new without needing to invest a significant amount of money in infrastructure. Alternative 4: Enhanced Local Service + Limited Stop/Rapid Service + Business Access and Transit Lane was also agreed to by the Partners as being a long-term potential solution. The group determined that additional analysis and significant public involvement would be needed in order to truly understand the benefits and impacts of removing a general purpose traffic lane from Broward Boulevard. It was determined that this option could be discussed and assessed as part of the Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Project being conducted by the Broward MPO and other various agencies in the Spring of 2012. Although Alternative 3 was selected by the Partners at a conceptual level, it was voiced that several details must be worked on collaboratively in the design phase of the project in order for a successful, operational, and safe implementation. Some of these elements include but are not limited to: stop locations and design ▪▪ Bus at West Regional Terminal ▪▪ Park-and-Ride Fort Lauderdale Station Pedestrian Connection ▪▪ Branding and Wayfinding ▪▪ Westfield Broward Mall Pedestrian Crossing ▪▪ Plantation Greenway ▪▪ Downtown Fort Lauderdale Loop ▪▪ Funding for Route 22 Limited Stop/Rapid Service ▪▪ Scheduling for the Local Route 22 and the Limited ▪▪ Stop/Rapid Service 56 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. NEXT STEPS TOWARDS IMPLEMENTATION The following initiatives are being pursued by FDOT and the Partners: close coordination and collaboration ▪▪ Continue amongst the Partners on the future baseline projects and how those interact with one another and with the Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study proposed concept. Continue working with the FDOT Planning Office on the ridership projections being prepared in parallel to this project. Prepare a Scope of Services for the design elements necessary to successfully implement Alternative 3. This scope should first be developed by the project team with the FDOT Project Manager. Once a draft has been prepared, the scope should be sent to the Partners for review and comment. A face-to-face meeting is ideal for the agencies dealing with corridor-wide elements; this would include the Broward MPO, BCT, FDOT and BCTED. Once a scope has been agreed upon, coordination is critical to the success of the proposed concept. The Partners should work together and agree to a phased implementation timeline for the proposed concept and its individual elements. A suggested implementation strategy and timeline is found in Appendix G. Operations funding for Route 22 Limited Stop/ Rapid Service is critical to the implementation of the proposed concept. A discussion between BCT, FDOT, and the Broward MPO should occur in the near-term to determine how the service will be funded. All other elements listed in Alternative 3 (defined in the previous section ‘Proposed Concept by Partners’) need to be collaboratively taken from a conceptual level to a design level, with support from the Partners. The responsibility for each of these elements should be identified and tracked by the Partners and the implementing agencies. ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ ▪▪ SECTION 6 Outreach Activities PARTNER MEETINGS AND BROWARD MPO RELATED MEETINGS For the Phase I outreach activities, the project team was in close coordination with the Partners. Three Partner meetings and nine one-on-one discussions with specific agencies were held. The Partners defined for this project included: Broward Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), Broward County Transit (BCT), South Florida Regional Transportation Authority (SFRTA), Broward County Traffic Engineering Division (BCTED), Broward County, and the Cities of Fort Lauderdale, Lauderhill and Plantation. The purpose of the Partner meetings was to as a group determine and agree to the methodologies applied and the solutions identified by the project team. Since not all of the project elements affected each Partner, we also held one-on-one meetings where a smaller group could focus on specific elements within the project. In addition to these Partner meetings and discussions, the project team presented to the Broward MPO Community Involvement Roundtable (CIR), Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC), and the MPO Board at the beginning and end of the project (June 2011 and March/April 2012, respectively). Lastly, the project team has made themselves available to present to individual City Boards as requested in the spring of 2012. Meeting minutes were recorded for each Partner Meeting and can be found in Appendix H. Meeting materials for the Partner Meetings are also located in Appendix H. COORDINATION MEETINGS WITH FDOT STAFF velopment for Transit Signal Priority and queue jump related activities, the Office of Operations for Advanced Traffic Management System related activities, and the Office of Design/Consultant Management for sidewalk, resurfacing, and bridge reconstruction activities. Meeting minutes were recorded for each Coordination Meeting and can be found in Appendix H. Aside from coordination with non-DOT agencies, the project team closely coordinated with other DOT offices and project managers to ensure efficiencies were created where possible due to multiple activities occurring and planned for along the corridor over the next 5+ years. It is necessary to look beyond the horizon of this project to ensure that its elements remain compatible with other corridor initiatives with further out horizons. Another incentive for this coordination was to give the opportunity for DOT peers to share past experiences and knowledge for potential benefit to the Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study. Nine Coordination Meetings occurred throughout the project, in addition to three one-one-one meetings with specific offices. The DOT involved in these meetings included the Office of Modal De- 57 Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study Table 10 - Coordination and Partner Meetings Summary Date 20-Jan, 2011 10-Mar, 2011 7-Apr, 2011 5-May, 2011 20-Jun, 2011 21-Jul, 2011 18-Aug, 2011 22-Sep, 2011 17-Oct, 2011 24/25 Oct, 2011 3-Nov, 2011 15-Dec, 2011 2-Feb, 2012 Apr-June, 2012 Agenda/ Description Coordination Meeting 1: Kick-off meeting with Khalilah; overview of management items - progress reports, invoices, etc.; go over framework for project, proposed meeting outline and schedule; discuss tasks to be done in Dec/Jan Coordination Meeting 2: Overview of Interviews, Data Collection, and Existing Conditions Assessment. Prep for Partner Meeting 1 Partner Meeting 1: Draft existing conditions summary, initial problem definition discussion, overview of potential treatments Coordination Meeting 3: Overview of finalized existing conditions assessment, overview of draft problem definition, initial corridor analysis discussion Coordination Meeting 4: Overview of finalized problem definition, corridor analysis long list of alternatives, preliminary project development summary matrix Partner Meeting 2: Brief overview of the finalized existing conditions, overview of finalized problem definition, long list of alternatives, preliminary project development summary matrix Coordination Meeting 5: Overview of final project development matrix, corridor analysis of short-list of alternatives Coordination Meeting 6: Finalizing alternatives work session Coordination Meeting 7A: Prep for Partner Meeting 3, go over finalized alternatives from work session, discuss best approach for presenting the information to the Partners Coordination Meeting 7B: Met with Amie Goddeau on October 24th to prepare for meeting with the District upper management. On October 25th, met with Gerry O-Reilly, Morteza Alian, and Howard Webb to discuss the final set of alternatives. Partner Meeting 3: Overview of finalized project development summary matrix, corridor analysis short-list of alternatives, selection of preferred alternative Coordination Meeting 8: Status on modeling activities and final set of deliverables Coordination Meeting 9: Simulation overview and video presentation and coordination needs for design phase of the project Presentation to the Broward MPO Board, TCC, and CIR; Presentations to City of Fort Lauderdale, Lauderhill and Plantation Commissions Table 11 - One-on-One Meetings – Alternative 3 Refinement Agency Broward County Transit FDOT Offices (Office of Modal Development, Operations) Broward MPO SFRTA/Tri-Rail Broward County Traffic Engineering Division Date of Meeting(s) 1/19/11, 9/29/11 1/19/11, 10/25/11, 11/2/11 2/1/11 2/3/11 2/3/11 City of Fort Lauderdale 4/29/11 11/21/11 City of Lauderhill 7/7/11 City of Plantation 11/2/11 58 | Kittelson & Associates, Inc. PROJECT MEETING SCHEDULE All project meetings are summarized in Table 10 and Table 11. Table 10 summarizes the coordination meetings that occurred with several FDOT staff from various offices including Planning, OMD, Operations, ROW, and Design. Table 10 also includes the partner meetings that included participation from the MPO, BCTED, BCT, SFRTA, Broward County, and the Cities of Fort Lauderdale, Lauderhill, and Plantation. Table 11 summarizes the one-on-one meetings held with specific partners and dates when those individual meetings were held. July 2012 GENERAL PUBLIC OUTREACH MEETING A final decision was made by the project team and the Florida Department of Transportation that the public involvement component of the Broward Boulevard Corridor Transit Study should and will occur during Phase II of the project between July 2012 and November 2013. Because of this, the Phase 1 project funds associated with public involvement will be transitioned into the Phase II scope and fee. It was decided that it was most appropriate to hold the public information meeting for the project when the 60% plans have been prepared for the preferred alternative (Alternative 3 – Enhanced Local Service + Limited Service/Rapid Service). Public involvement related activities associated with Alternative 4, which considers designating the curb side lanes along Broward Boulevard from SR-7 to Andrews Avenue into Business Access and Transit only lanes, will be coordinated and considered under the Broward MPO Broward Boulevard Gateway Implementation Project. OUTREACH ACTIVITIES NEXT STEPS In addition to conducting the public involvement under Phase II of the project, it is expected that frequent and effective coordination with the multiple DOT offices and the non-DOT partner agencies will continue into Phase II of the project and at a greater detail and depth than what occurred in Phase I due to the nature of the work being performed (i.e., planning level versus design). 59 Kittelson & Associates, Inc. 110 E Broward Blvd, Suite 2410 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301 United States p 954.828.1730 f 954.828.1787